Chinese ambassador highlights wartime ties as Zhoushan unveils memorial to rescue of British POWs by Dongji fishermen

On 20 May 2025, the unveiling ceremony of the Memorial for Dongji Fishermen's Rescue of British Prisoners of War was held on Qingbang Island of Dongji, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province. Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang provided written remarks for the occasion.

Ambassador Zheng cited President Xi Jinping's words that the Lisbon Maru rescue is a significant testament to China and the UK fighting side by side as allies during WWII, united in their resistance against fascist aggression. Eighty-three years ago, braving a hail of Japanese gunfire, Zhoushan fishermen risked their lives to rescue 384 British POWs. Their righteous actions embodied the Chinese people's compassion and commitment to peace. The heroic episode stands as a lasting symbol of the friendship between the Chinese and British peoples.

Ambassador Zheng noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the world Anti-Fascist War. Looking back on those tumultuous years of conflict, we are reminded of the hard-won nature of peace and cherish even more the bonds forged between the Chinese and British peoples amid the flames of war. As permanent members of the UN Security Council and countries with significant global influence, China and the UK bear important responsibilities for safeguarding international peace and security. We must remember history, carry forward our friendship, strengthen exchanges, and deepen cooperation to further cement the foundation of goodwill between our peoples and ensure the steady and sustained development of China-UK relations.

In October 1942, the Japanese military requisitioned the Lisbon Maru, a passenger and cargo ship, to transport more than 1,800 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan. While passing through waters near Zhoushan, the vessel was torpedoed by the US forces. A total of 843 POWs perished, while 384 were saved by local Chinese fishermen who risked their own lives.

To commemorate this rescue effort, the Zhoushan People's Government built the Memorial for Dongji Fishermen's Rescue of British Prisoners of War on Qingbang Island and held this unveiling ceremony. Eighteen descendants of the rescued British POWs joined the descendants of the fishermen in unveiling the memorial.