Chinese embassy in the UK commemorates Lisbon Maru rescue

The Chinese Embassy in the UK hosted a special reception in London on Saturday to commemorate the heroic rescue of British prisoners of war (POWs) from the sinking of the Lisbon Maru during World War II.

The event brought together families of survivors to honor the bravery of Chinese fishermen who risked their lives to save 384 British soldiers.

In October 1942, the Lisbon Maru, a Japanese cargo vessel, was transporting 1,816 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan along with 778 Japanese troops and a 25-man guard unit. 

While sailing through the East China Sea, the unmarked ship was torpedoed by the U.S. Navy. Amidst Japanese gunfire, 255 Chinese fishermen courageously intervened, rescuing hundreds of British POWs.

The reception comes as 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the broader World Anti-Fascist War. 

Chinese Ambassador to the UK, Zheng Zeguang, highlighted the significance of this rescue, emphasizing how it symbolized the allied efforts of China and Britain against fascist aggression.

Ambassador Zheng expressed gratitude to those who have kept the memory of the Lisbon Maru alive, including Major Finch, who has diligently collected records of the event; Mrs Wynne, who wrote to President Xi Jinping; Mr. Jones, head of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association; and Mr. Richard Graham, author of a book detailing the incident. 

Ken Salmon, whose father was among the rescued POWs, reflected on a recent trip to Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, where his father was saved. 

"We met an awful lot of people in China who are connected to this story, and I can say with certainty that lifelong friendships have been formed between the island and the families, including myself."

The story of the Lisbon Maru rescue was brought to the big screen in the documentary The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, which premiered in China in September 2024. Ambassador Zheng announced at the reception that the documentary would debut in the UK in March.

A special photo exhibition was also on display, showing the events that commemorate the history of the Lisbon Maru. The reception featured cultural performances by Chinese diplomats, local musicians, and performers, immersing the attendees in the festive atmosphere of the Chinese New Year.