Commemorative activities for Chinese-Australian Servicemen were held on the afternoon of Sept. 16th in Canberra. Co-hosted by Australian War Memorial (AWM) and Australia China Friendship and Exchange Association (ACFEA), the activities aimed to celebrate the 70th anniversary of World Anti-Fascist War and to commemorate contributions made by Chinese-Australian Servicemen.
Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, Chinese Ambassador to Australia Ma Zhaoxu, ACFEA chairman and Kingold chairman Dr. Chau Chak Wing, AWM Director Dr. Brendan Nelson and Vice President of CPAFFC Xie Yuan were among the attendees.
Dr. Chau Chak Wing laid wreath to anonymous soldiers
In the afternoon, Dr. Chau Chak Wing laid wreath to anonymous servicemen with representatives from National Defense and WWII and was guided by Dr. Nelson as guests toured around the AWM.
In the evening, a reception was held at the AWM where Minister Bishop, Ambassador Ma and Dr. Chau addressed the audience.
During her speech, Minister Bishop told the story of a famous Chinese-Australian sniper during WWI called William Edward Sing. He was known for his brave deeds in Gallipoli Campaign. She said that Australia-China relation was one between nations in a modern time and spoke highly of Dr. Chau as an outstanding philanthropist and an iconic figure in promoting friendship between Australia and China.
Ambassador Ma applauded contributions made by Chinese-Australian servicemen
During his speech, Ambassador Ma applauded contributions made by Chinese-Australian servicemen to the national development of Australia. He talked about the Anti-Fascist Documentary Iron Bob, according to which Australian workers refused to load iron ore when they found out it would be used for China-invading Japanese to make weapons. He said that he firmly believed Sino-Australian relations would develop further and usher in a brighter future.
Dr. Chau said that Chinese-Australian had made sacrifices for peace and development of Australia, yet they were not well known to the public due to historical reasons. He hopes that these commemorative activities can send out a message that all Australians, regardless of their race or religious belief, have the responsibility to defend democracy, freedom and equality. Before he concluded his speech, he called for all to “do our bit to safeguard world peace.”
During the reception, a video clip was played to introduce the multi-media studio at the AWM sponsored by Kingold Group and an unveiling ceremony was held. Dr. Chau, Ambassador Bishop and Director Nelson presented an advance copy of Quiet and Loyal Spirit to the audience.
This commemoration is said to be the first high standard ceremony held by AWM to pay tribute to Chinese-Australian servicemen since its establishment in 1932.