On a crisp Tuesday in Liverpool, history buffs and peace advocates gathered for a moving event that brought to light a lesser-known chapter of World War II: the story of over 20,000 Chinese seamen who braved stormy seas to support the Allied war effort 🚢.
Hosted by the China Media Group (CMG) to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the “Echoes of Peace” event blended powerful storytelling with stunning visuals 📸❤️.
Charting the “Steel Transport Line”
From the outbreak of the Pacific War in 1941, these brave sailors formed what became known as the “steel transport line,” delivering crucial supplies across treacherous waters. Their courage created an unbreakable bond with the British people—a friendship remembered through newly unveiled archival photos.
A Blockbuster-Style Documentary
Adding a modern twist, the event premiered CGTN’s documentary “Witness to War,” which uses AI magic to restore and animate scenes from George Hogg’s adventures in China 🎥✨. Hogg, a British journalist turned wartime hero, inspired audiences with his belief in unity and hope.
His nephew, Mark Thomas, even donated precious manuscripts, including Hogg’s memoir “I See a New China,” ensuring these memories will sail on for generations.
A Global Call for Peace
International figures joined the tribute. In a heartfelt video address, Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva, stressed that the 1945 victory was born from global unity 🌍🕊️. Former Hungarian Prime Minister Medgyessy Péter and other leaders underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in safeguarding peace.
As Liverpool Mayor Barbara Murray reflected, “There are no true winners in war—only lessons that remind us how precious peace truly is.”
From Liverpool’s waterfront to screens worldwide, “Echoes of Peace” reminds us that history’s hidden heroes deserve the spotlight, and that in remembering the past, we anchor our hope for a more peaceful future.
Reference(s):
A forgotten British WWII story of Chinese seamen unveiled in Liverpool
cgtn.com
