Ju said that detailed schedules are still under discussion with Chinese counterparts, adding that the details would be explained in an appropriate time.
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The European Union’s ambassador to Beijing, Hans Dietmar Schweisgut, recently said the planned display of military might raises questions “about whether the event will encourage reconciliation or further stir resentment”.
A few leaders have confirmed their attendance, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, who staged a similar military parade in May boycotted by many Western leaders.
China has scheduled a series of events for the war victory anniversary, culminating in a military parade on Sept 3 in Beijing.
Washington has not announced if any American officials will attend nor even acknowledged if an invitation from Beijing was received.
Shanghai hosted a large number of people from the Korean Peninsula after Japan started its colonial rule, and the Chinese city was also once home to Korean independence fighters.
President Park’s decision to attend the Beijing celebration reinforces her efforts to nurture a positive relationship with China, South Korea’s largest trading partner.
Regardless of Washington’s feelings on the matter, the question of whether South Korea can build a stronger relationship with China while maintaining its alliance with the U.S. has been the subject of great intrigue.
(Stand-up) “President Park is expected to take the initiative in Beijing to address diplomacy issues in Northeast Asia and urge the resumption of the long-stalled trilateral summit with China and Japan later this year”.
It remains to be seen whether Park will be joined in Beijing by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who may be keen to protect Pyongyang’s traditional ties with China. The two allied forces are now involved in joint military drills.
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China is North Korea’s last major ally and biggest aid benefactor.
