Former New Zealand Prime Ministers John Key and Helen Clark will attend a large Chinese military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Chinese victory against Japan in World War Two.

The ceremony in Tiananmen Square on Wednesday will also feature leaders like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. 

National Minister Chris Bishop says he thinks the invitation reflects the historical circumstances of their Governments.

"Helen Clark and John Key - their Governments had good relations, we did the free trade deal under the Clark Government, which continued on."

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