European Diplomats Consider Skipping Beijing Parade
Concerns Over Russian Participation Amid Ukraine War
Absence Would Send "Strong Message" on Ukraine Conflict
Reports have emerged that European diplomats based in China, including the European Union (EU) ambassador, are considering not attending the military parade in Beijing next month commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the 'War of Resistance Against Japan and the World Anti-Fascist War' (World War II).
On August 18 (local time), the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP), citing multiple anonymous sources, reported that European diplomats are discussing this option in light of the possible attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the potential participation of Russian troops in the parade.
European diplomats have been invited to the parade and related events, but are taking into account the ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia's recent intensification of its offensive against Ukraine.
One source explained that some diplomats are hesitant because of the possibility that "the same troops that invaded Ukraine" might participate in the parade. However, it has not yet been confirmed whether Russian troops will actually take part in the event. According to the sources, European embassies do not have strict guidelines on the level of officials to send to the parade; some have decided not to attend, and in some cases, diplomats have opted for vacations or overseas trips during that period.
One source stated that Jorge Toledo, the EU ambassador to China, will not attend the parade, and it has been suggested that if other European ambassadors in China also decide not to participate, it would send a "strong message" from Europe regarding the war in Ukraine.
China is scheduled to hold the parade near Tiananmen Square in Beijing on September 3. From Europe, President Putin, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico are expected to attend.
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