Excitement grows in HK over Beijing's V-Day parade

Representatives from the Hong Kong community are filled with a sense of anticipation about the grand parade to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) that will be held in Beijing on Wednesday, saying it will serve as a demonstration of both the nation's defense prowess and its determination to preserve peace.

The V-Day military procession, scheduled to start at 9 am in Tian'anmen Square, will feature a march-past of troops involving 45 formations and echelons. A 360-member delegation from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, led by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, will attend.

Among the delegates is Hong Kong lawmaker Priscilla Leung Mei-fun. She said the streets of Beijing are adorned with beautiful decorations, which enhance the commemorative atmosphere. National security is vital for development, she said, adding that a robust military protects China from the threat of war.