On Aug 28, China announced the guest list for its upcoming V-Day commemorations. Russian President Vladimir Putin and DPRK leader Kim Jong-un are among 26 foreign heads of state and government who will attend China's V-Day commemorations.

Despite Japan's earlier efforts to dissuade European and Asian countries from attending, the strong turnout underscores the significance of this event. China's V-Day parade honors not only its own War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, but also the broader global fight against fascism during World War II.

Rather than avoiding the weight of history, Japan's leaders should stand in Beijing to face up to the past, not turn away from it.