Liverpool event marks Chinese heroism in World War II

China's role in World War II has been remembered at a special event in Liverpool to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the conflict.

Echoes of Peace was organized by China Media Group and CGTN, and held at the Bluecoat Gallery. It was attended by diplomats, historians, relatives of veterans, and local community leaders.

Speaking at the event, Yang Zhiyu, Deputy Consul-General of China in Manchester, reminded attendees of the war's enduring lessons. 

"Today, eight decades later we look back on those years of fire and sacrifice, not only to honor historical truth but also to draw wisdom and strength from them," he said.

Speakers highlighted China's often overlooked contribution to the Allied war effort, sharing stories of resistance, sacrifice and international cooperation.

"I think it's very accurate [to say] that China has been forgotten," said Professor Yangwen Zheng of the University of Manchester. "There are many stories that need to be told and I think as a historian I have a job to do to inspire more research." 

One powerful example under discussion was the tragedy of the Lisbon Maru, a Japanese transport ship carrying British prisoners of war when it sank in 1942. Local Chinese fishermen risked their lives to rescue survivors. 

"I think the biggest story about the Lisbon Maru is that it encompasses both the worst of war and also the best of war," said Anthony Jones, Chairman of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association. 

"The worst being what our poor prisoners of war went through and then also this humanity of the Chinese who came and saved them at the risk of their own lives."

The gathering also reflected on the post-war treatment of Chinese sailors in Liverpool. Despite risking their lives to supply the city during wartime, many were forcibly repatriated afterwards, leaving families behind. 

"Those sailors risked their lives to bring food into the bay of Liverpool to feed us while we were fighting the Germans," said Joe Phillips, the son of one such seaman. "And how were they repaid? They were repaid by being repatriated. To what? They had families here. It is an injustice."

Liverpool's Lord Mayor, Councillor Barbara Murray, admitted her shock at the revelations. "I was shocked by what has happened with respect to the seamen from Liverpool. I just didn't know anything about that," she said. 

"I think it must be devastating to think you've been abandoned by your father. I personally will do whatever I can to help them resolve some of that in whatever ways we can." 

The program also looked ahead, with discussions on today's international order and rising global tensions. 

"This dialogue, these meetings, the diplomacy can help to better understand and to take responsibility together for the future," said Péter Medgyessy, former Prime Minister of Hungary. 

Organizers said the event was not only about remembering past struggles, but also about fostering dialogue and strengthening understanding between China and the wider world in today's turbulent times.