Anzac Day Commemorated in Australia and New Zealand Amid U.S.-China Rivalry

On April 25, 2023, hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Australia and New Zealand to honor their war dead on Anzac Day. This significant event marks the date in 1915 when the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps landed on the beaches of Gallipoli, Turkey, in their first combat of World War I.

In New Zealand, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon participated in a service in Auckland, the country's largest city, emphasizing the importance of thanking the military personnel for their contribution to freedom and democracy. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined a ceremony at a World War II memorial in Papua New Guinea. This solemn occasion brought people together under a full moon to pay tribute to the courageous soldiers who fought for their countries.

Honoring the Past

During the gathering, Albanese highlighted the significance of Anzac Day, stressing that it does not glorify war but rather serves as a reminder to preserve the names and memories of those who made sacrifices for their nations. He also underscored the enduring security ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea, solidified by a comprehensive security agreement signed in December last year. This agreement aims to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries and ensure stability in the region.

The commemoration comes at a time of growing tensions in the U.S.-China rivalry in the Asia-Pacific region. While emphasizing the importance of peace prevailing in all circumstances, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape reassured that their security agreements with the U.S. and Australia do not indicate taking sides in the strategic competition with China. This declaration followed China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Papua New Guinea to discuss building closer relations, indicating the complex dynamics at play in the region.

Anzac Day is considered a sacred day for all Australians and New Zealanders, providing an opportunity for reflection, remembrance and gratitude for the great service men and women who have bravely defended their nations' values. The solemnity of the dawn services united people in honoring the legacy of the fallen soldiers, embodying the enduring spirit of Anzac Day.