Remembering Tiananmen Square: 36 Years Later

Remembering Tiananmen Square: 36 Years Later

Beijing responded to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's comments about the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989, calling it an attack on China. The violent incident occurred on June 4, 1989, when Chinese troops and tanks dispersed peaceful protesters in the capital, resulting in hundreds of deaths. The Chinese government has since tried to erase any mention of the crackdown, censoring online content and warning foreign media about coverage related to the event.

On the 36th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown, police were observed at Wan'an Cemetery in Beijing, where victims are buried, and at intersections leading to Tiananmen Square. Rubio emphasized that the world will never forget the events of June 4, 1989, despite China's efforts to suppress information. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian criticized Rubio's remarks, accusing the US of distorting historical facts and interfering in China's internal affairs.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te echoed Rubio's sentiments, pledging to honor the memory of the crackdown's victims. In Hong Kong, activist Chow Hang-tung initiated a 36-hour hunger strike to commemorate the anniversary, as public remembrances of the event have been curtailed following the implementation of a national security law. Chow, who faces subversion charges, emphasized the importance of remembering the events of June 4, 1989, and advocating for human rights.