A Front-Row Seat to History
In September 2025, 95-year-old Wang Kechang and 96-year-old Zhang Xiuju watched a grand military parade in Beijing, tears in their eyes as they saw the country’s strength on display 🎉. Their emotional moment echoed decades of change.
“Faster Than a High-Speed Train”
Wang and Zhang grew up during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. They remember hardship and hope – now they marvel at the Chinese mainland’s rapid rise, calling it “faster than a high-speed train” 🚄. From scarce resources to skyscrapers and bullet trains, they’ve witnessed a transformation few can match.
Dream of Reunification
Zhang says she looks forward to the return of the island of Taiwan to China. For her, and for hundreds of millions across the country, reunification and national rejuvenation remain a lifelong aspiration. “No force can stop our advance,” she says with a determined smile 😊.
Why It Matters
These personal stories show how history, ambition, and unity shape modern China. Whether you’re a student exploring international trends, an entrepreneur eyeing Asian markets, or part of the Asian diaspora, Wang and Zhang’s memories offer a powerful reminder: understanding the past can light the way forward.
Reference(s):
Two 90+-year-olds' thoughts on China's new era, the Taiwan region
cgtn.com
