About 150 Taiwan compatriots in the Huli district of Xiamen, Fujian province, were inspired by the live broadcast of the national parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

About 150 Taiwan compatriots in the Huli district of Xiamen, Fujian province, were inspired by the live broadcast of the national parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War.

"Today must be the happiest day for me in the 20 years since I returned to the mainland," said Cheng Chun-yuan, who watched the parade with his mother and children.

He said that beyond feeling the strength of the motherland, he was also astounded by the country's progress.

About 150 Taiwan compatriots in the Huli district of Xiamen, Fujian province, were inspired by the live broadcast of the national parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"So many world leaders came to China to witness the power of our national defense and the robust development of our motherland," he said, adding that his entire family feels immensely proud.

Cheng Wei-zhe, his son, said that it's truly wonderful to have been born in China. "We are living in a very peaceful time, and we must cherish this peace and the opportunities we have today even more," he said.

Everyone watched attentively, sang together in praise of the motherland and applauded and cheered for its prosperity.

About 150 Taiwan compatriots in the Huli district of Xiamen, Fujian province, were inspired by the live broadcast of the national parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"I am proud to be Chinese!" Speaking about his feelings, Tsao Sheng-yung from Taiwan became tearful.

Tsao said that from childhood he had heard his grandfather tell stories about the war. He has visited many memorial sites across the country, which deeply moved him.

"We must not forget the national humiliation. We must remember history, cherish peace and strive for self-improvement," he said.

Su Fei-chun, president of Huli district's Taiwan business association, said that compatriots from the island share inseparable blood ties and familial bonds, all flowing in the blood of the descendants of Emperor Yan and the Yellow Emperor.

"Today, everyone here witnessed the strength of the motherland, and we must unite even more to work together for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," Su said.

The event was organized by the Taiwan affairs office of Huli district.