In 1942, the Lisbon Maru was torpedoed and sank in the waters off Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, leaving more than 1,800 British prisoners of war fighting for their lives. Despite the Japanese blockade and search operations, fishermen from Dongji Island sent out 46 fishing boats, making 65 rescue trips and saving 384 British POWs.

In August 2022, in a letter to the families of the survivors, President Xi Jinping emphasized that the touching story is an important witness to China and the UK standing shoulder to shoulder as allies during World War II against fascist aggression, and it is also a historical tale of the profound friendship between the two peoples.

2025 marked the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

This friendship, forged in sacrifice and courage, continues to inspire the peoples of both countries as they remember history and cherish peace.