ISLAMABAD: Chinese President Xi Jinping has accepted an invitation to attend the 80th anniversary of Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, marking the end of World War II, the Kremlin confirmed on Monday.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Such contacts and visits are being prepared, and we attach great mutual importance to the symbolism of these dates.” He added that the celebrations highlight the historical contributions of both countries in the fight against Nazism and the importance of bilateral relations.
Russia’s Ambassador to China, Igor Morgulov, previously announced Xi’s visit, and mentioned that President Xi had invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to China in early September for events commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II.
Xi last visited Moscow in March 2023 for a three-day trip at Putin’s invitation.
In addition to Xi, leaders from several countries, including Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, are expected to attend the Victory Day 2025 celebrations.
Peskov also noted that many heads of state had been invited to the annual military parade, welcoming all who choose to attend. In 2022, no foreign leaders attended the parade following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but in 2023, leaders from several former Soviet states were present.
