HK’s WWII exhibition draws global consuls to honor history and peace

The Hong Kong Museum of History welcomed a distinguished group of foreign consuls general and chamber of commerce representatives, alongside local and mainland officials, to an exhibition commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, highlighting the city’s role in the historic struggle and the global call for peace.

The exhibition, visited by Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Li Yongsheng and Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki, features over 180 artifacts that chronicle the history of the war.

Among them, 82 items are on loan from the National Museum of China, with around 60 making their public debut and eight classified as national first-grade relics.

Each artifact tells a story of resilience, showcasing Hong Kong’s contributions to the national war effort.

The presence of numerous foreign consuls general underscored the event’s international significance, reflecting global interest in the shared history of resistance and the importance of collective peace.

Li emphasized the enduring relevance of the war’s lessons, noting that global challenges like geopolitical tensions highlight the need for cooperation among nations to ensure peace and improve global governance.

He underscored China’s commitment to fostering peaceful development and working with other countries to prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies through mutual respect and support.

Chan highlighted the exhibition’s role in education and remembrance, aiming to honor the past while fostering appreciation for peace without perpetuating animosity.

He noted that the Hong Kong government is actively restoring war-related historical sites across the city, with plans to integrate them into tourism routes and educational programs.

Additionally, a new educational initiative in collaboration with Shenzhen will focus on the contributions of Chinese cultural figures during the war, aiming to deepen understanding among residents and visitors.

The exhibition serves as both a tribute to history and a reminder of the importance of peace, drawing international attention through the participation of consuls general and reinforcing Hong Kong’s commitment to preserving its historical legacy.