Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the War of Resistance, Taiwan Retrocession, the End of World War II, and the Founding of the United Nations

The Kuomintang (KMT) is honored to announce a series of commemorative events marking four historic milestones of global significance: the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Militarism, Taiwan’s Retrocession, the end of the Second World War, and the founding of the United Nations. These commemorations are not only of great importance to Taiwan and the Republic of China, but also resonate with the collective memory and shared values of the international community.

Remembering Sacrifice, Defending Historical Truth

During the eight-year War of Resistance, Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek led the nation in an unyielding struggle against Japanese militarism. At the cost of over three million soldiers and twenty million civilians, China secured victory against militarism and made a decisive contribution to the Allied cause. This victory elevated the Republic of China’s international standing: unequal treaties were abolished, the ROC became one of the Big Four powers, and a founding member of the United Nations. The Cairo Declaration restored Taiwan, Penghu, and Manchuria to the Republic of China, a principle later enshrined in the Potsdam Proclamation and recognized in Japan’s Instrument of Surrender. The KMT aims to ensure that these enduring achievements are recognized, respected, and preserved by the international community.

Taiwan’s Retrocession and Democratic Legacy

Taiwan, ceded to Japan in 1895 and subject to fifty years of colonial rule, was restored to the Republic of China following the Allied victory. This marked the beginning of Taiwanese self-governance and the foundation upon which Taiwan built its modern prosperity, including its globally renowned semiconductor industry. Without the victory of the War of Resistance, there would have been no Retrocession of Taiwan. Without the sacrifices of our forebears, there would be no freedom, democracy, and prosperity as we know them today. The KMT hopes international friends will recognize these contributions and join in safeguarding Taiwan’s democratic and economic achievements.

Allied Solidarity and Regional Peace

Throughout World War II, the Republic of China stood shoulder-to-shoulder with its allies. The United States and other partners provided essential support, while ROC expeditionary forces fought bravely alongside Allied troops in Burma and India, recovering lost territories and making direct contributions to the victory. These joint efforts also advanced the postwar decolonization process in East Asia. The KMT invites international friends to reflect upon this wartime solidarity and to work together to defend the postwar international order, safeguarding peace and prosperity in the region.

From Commemoration to Commitment

Eighty years on, commemoration is not only a celebration of victory, but also a solemn reminder to learn from history, prevent war, and promote peace. As Madame Chiang Kai-shek declared before the U.S. Congress: “We in China, like you, want a better world, not for ourselves alone, but for all mankind, and we must have it.” The War of Resistance was fought not only for the survival of the Republic of China and the retrocession of Taiwan, but also for the future of humanity. This spirit reflects the very founding mission of the United Nations and underpins our decision to commemorate these anniversaries in a dignified and meaningful manner.

Through solemn ceremonies, historical reflection, and interactive experiences, these commemorations aim to deepen international understanding of the Republic of China’s pivotal role in World War II, inspire younger generations to treasure freedom and peace, and reaffirm our shared responsibility to preserve the hard-won victories of the past 80 years.