BEIJING, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday applauded Taiwan compatriots who, in spite of intimidation and obstruction by the island's authorities, came to Beijing for commemorations, including a military parade, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said while some Taiwan compatriots attended the commemorations in person, many more people in Taiwan followed the event via live broadcast.

"The parade demonstrated our determination and ability to safeguard peace and justice, uphold national unity, and oppose 'Taiwan independence,'" Chen said. ■