Top Chinese leaders paid homage to the Chinese soldiers who died fighting Japanese aggression during the Second World War Friday, the 65th anniversary of the Japanese surrender to China.

At the Museum of the War of the Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing, Chinese President Hu Jintao, top legislator Wu Bangguo, Premier Wen Jiabao and other members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee—Jia Qinglin, Li Changchun, Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, He Guoqiang and Zhou Yongkang—presented bouquets to honor the war martyrs.

Veterans, foreigners who helped China fight the Japanese invaders and other citizens also mourned the martyrs with silent tribute.

"The victory was a major event in the 20th century. It was significant for the Chinese nation and the overall progress of human civilization," senior leader Li Changchun said Friday at a seminar in Beijing to mark the victory.

Li hailed the spirit of the Chinese people during the 14-year-long war and praised the CPC members who played a key role in uniting the nation and fighting at the frontlines.

Li urged the promotion of a patriotic spirit and the strengthening of the Party and international cooperation in order to ensure world peace and justice.

Across China Friday, people from all walks of lives mourned the martyrs at various ceremonies.

(Xinhua News Agency September 3, 2010)