Xi Jinping said in a televised speech that “the rise of the Chinese nation cannot be stopped, and the noble cause of peace and development for humanity will surely prevail.”

He added, “Today, humanity once again faces a choice between peace or war, dialogue or confrontation.”

The Chinese president called on the countries of the world to “eliminate the root causes of war and prevent the repetition of historical tragedies.”

He said, “Common security can only be guaranteed when countries treat each other equally, live in harmony, and support one another.”

The massive military parade was attended by more than 20 world leaders, including notably Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

The Chinese president arrived with his guests at the historic Tiananmen Gate to watch the military parade on Wednesday in the Chinese capital.

Xi shook hands with guests one by one on the red carpet before they ascended to the viewing platform atop the gate overlooking Tiananmen Square.

Putin and Kim walked alongside Xi as they headed to the platform, while the other attendees warmly applauded as they took their seats.

The three leaders stopped to shake hands with five World War II veterans, some of whom were over 100 years old.

The military parade, held to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, showcased modern missiles, fighter jets, and other forms of military power, at a time when China seeks to enhance its influence on the global stage.