'Echoes of peace': A forgotten British WWII story of Chinese seamen unveiled in Liverpool

An emotional event in Liverpool on Tuesday shed light on a largely untold chapter of World War II history: the story of over 20,000 Chinese seamen who risked their lives 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" humanitarian exchange event served as a poignant reminder of the forgotten heroism and the enduring power of international friendship.

A highlight of the event was a photo exhibition that for the first time publicly displayed a trove of historical images, bringing to light the courage of these Chinese seamen.

After the Pacific War broke out in 1941, they sailed across treacherous seas, forming a "steel transport line" to ensure the delivery of crucial supplies. Their unwavering bravery and sacrifice forged a profound bond with the British people.

Liverpool Mayor Barbara Murray, a guest at the event, expressed her emotion after viewing the exhibition, saying there are no true winners in war and only by remembering the historical pain can we better appreciate the preciousness of peace.

AI revives forgotten war hero's journey

The event also featured a deeply personal story of Anglo-Chinese cooperation. CGTN documentary "Witness to War" was premiered, featuring the inspiring journey of George Hogg, a British journalist who bravely joined China's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

Using cutting-edge AI technology, the film creates an immersive experience for viewers by restoring scenes of Hogg's life and work in China.

Hogg's nephew, Mark Thomas, attended the event and donated his uncle's manuscripts, including a copy of his book "I See a New China."

Global call for peace

The event brought together a distinguished group of international guests who echoed the event's theme of peace and cooperation.

In a video address, Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva Tatiana Valovaya emphasized that the 1945 victory was born from global unity, which led to the founding of the United Nations.

Former Hungarian Prime Minister Medgyessy Péter highlighted China's role as a crucial force for maintaining world stability.

Other speakers, including former Romanian President Traian Băsescu, former Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Ana Palacio and renowned sinologists and historians like Frances Wood and Robert Lyman, engaged in discussions on safeguarding the post-war international order and the importance of multilateralism.