A large gathering was held in Hong Kong Tuesday to mark to the 60th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

More than 2,000 people from all walks of life attended the gathering, during which representatives of Hong Kong's former guerrillas were conferred with gold medals.

Tung Chee Hwa, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Gao Siren, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong, and some other officials attended the grand gathering.

Chuang Shih-ping, chairman of the Preparatory Committee of Hong Kong Activities for Marking 60th Victory Anniversary of War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, said at the gathering that, to mark the 60th anniversary, over 860 Hong Kong social organizations jointly established a preparatory committee earlier this year.

He said the committee will launch a series of commemorative activities and the gathering is a major part of them.

He expressed hearty thanks to guerrillas who fought blood and soul in the war.

Chuang said, in the past 60 years, China experienced many hardships and struggles. Since China's implementation of the opening-up and reform drive in late 1970s, the motherland has become more and more powerful.

He believed that the Chinese nation would become more prosperous in the 21st century.

Li Gang, deputy director of the Liaison Office, said at the gathering that the recall of history will help people carry on the national spirit and cohere the national power.

Entrusted by the Liaison Office, Li expressed the utmost respect and best wishes for senior guerrillas, most of whom are in their 70s and 80s.

He emphasized that the recall is to treasure and maintain the peace, which did not come easily.

Li urged the public to join hands to carry on the spirit of patriotism and implement the principles of "One country, two systems. "

He also called on people to continue to seek stability, harmony and development to develop a prosperous future.

Source: Xinhua