中国驻英国使馆为“里斯本丸”号船英军战俘家属举办新春招待会

Core Viewpoint - The event commemorates the rescue of British POWs from the "Lisbon Maru" by Chinese fishermen during World War II, emphasizing the enduring friendship between China and the UK [1]. Group 1: Historical Context - The "Lisbon Maru" was requisitioned by the Japanese military in October 1942 to transport over 1,800 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan, without any flags indicating the transport of prisoners [1]. - The ship was torpedoed by a US submarine in the Zhoushan Islands, leading to a chaotic sinking where Japanese forces abandoned the ship, and British POWs attempted to escape but were shot at by Japanese soldiers [1]. - Local fishermen from Zhoushan risked their lives to rescue the POWs, ultimately saving 384 individuals [1]. Group 2: Diplomatic Relations - Chinese Ambassador to the UK, Zheng Zeguang, highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between China and the UK, advocating for the maintenance of the international system centered around the United Nations [1]. - The ambassador called for both nations to remember history, pass on friendship, and enhance exchanges to contribute to stable and long-term Sino-British relations [1]. Group 3: Cultural Exchange - The event featured performances by artists from Zhejiang and Shaanxi, showcasing traditional Chinese cultural acts such as the Ansai Waist Drum and Sichuan Opera face-changing [2]. - The Chinese Embassy choir performed songs celebrating the Chinese New Year, while descendants of the rescued POWs presented handmade keychains to the Chinese attendees [2].