We should always remember our history and remain vigilant against remarks that glorify aggression, Hong Kong’s leader told those attending the opening ceremony of a high-level exhibition commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory of Japan’s unconditional surrender and the end of the World Anti-Fascist War on Friday.

In a speech at the event, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that aggression and hegemonism have continued to this day, that risks and challenges remain apparent, and that hostile forces are constantly on the move.

The history of Chinese resistance against Japan’s aggression — still carried in the hearts of many — serves as a reminder to the public to stand vigilant in times of peace and to cherish peace, Lee told the gathering of social dignitaries.

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Themed around commemorating history and cherishing peace, the exhibition was hosted by the Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group. Through a diverse array of images, texts, videos, and precious artifacts, the exhibition vividly recounts the history of the Chinese nation defending its homeland during wartime.

Many high-ranking officials from the central and SAR governments, including Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Zhou Ji, attended the opening ceremony.

Lee said that Hong Kong people have always stood shoulder to shoulder with their compatriots in safeguarding the nation during wartime, and that he hopes this sense of national duty will be passed down through the generations.

The exhibition, free of charge, will also be taken to all 18 districts in Hong Kong —including schools — after it has been showcased at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, said Lee.

He said he hopes that residents can gain a more comprehensive and vivid understanding of the Chinese nation’s collective memory through the exhibition and other commemorative events.

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Li Dahong, chairman of the Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group, said the exhibition marks a new beginning. He said that by drawing strength from history’s lessons, society can honor the spirit of its ancestors and advance the development of both the “one country, two systems” principle and the nation as a whole.

Running from Friday until Aug 29, the exhibition is open to the public for eight consecutive days at Hall 3C of the HKCEC.

Over 300 groups have made reservations to visit the exhibition, according to the organizer.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com