A gun salute is held during the commemoration activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, Sept 3, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

The United States, Britain and France sent government representatives.

It's been 84 years since China was dragged into war following Japan's invasion of northeast China in 1931. In the fourteen years that followed, over 35 million soldiers and civilians were killed or wounded in China, the main oriental theatre of WWII.

Japan signed its formal WWII surrender on Sept. 2, 1945, and China celebrated its victory the following day.

"The victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is the first complete victory won by China in its resistance against foreign aggression in modern times, said Xi in his speech prior to the parade.

"This great triumph opened up bright prospects for the great renewal of the Chinese nation and set our ancient country on a new journey after gaining rebirth," Xi said in his about 10-minute address.

The Chinese president then mounted a black open-top Red Flag limousine as he reviewed troops who stood to attention down the length of Beijing's magnificent Chang'an Avenue.

"Follow the Party! Fight to win! Forge exemplary conduct!" over 10,000 servicemen and women saluted Xi and exclaimed.

At the height of the celebrations, helicopters carrying China's national flag and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) flag drew the curtains for the much-anticipated military parade. This was the 15th parade held by China since 1949. All previous 14 were held for National Day celebrations.

On the ground, WWII veterans, chest bristling with medals and waving, rode on convertibles amidst tides of applause.