ISLAMABAD: Beijing strongly criticized US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his remarks commemorating the Tiananmen Square crackdown, calling his statements an “attack” on China.
Rubio had vowed that the world would “never forget” the violent suppression of pro-democracy protesters in 1989, a sensitive subject China continues to tightly control and censor.
The crackdown saw troops and tanks forcefully clear Beijing’s Tiananmen Square after weeks of peaceful demonstrations demanding political reforms, resulting in hundreds, possibly over a thousand, deaths.
Diplomatic Tensions and Official Responses
Rubio’s statement reiterated the bravery of those who lost their lives and those still seeking justice decades later. He criticized Beijing’s efforts to erase the event from public memory. In response, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian accused Rubio of “maliciously distorting historical facts” and interfering in China’s internal affairs.
Meanwhile, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te supported Rubio’s call, emphasizing the importance of remembering history and defending human rights, despite China’s claims over Taiwan and its threats against the island.
In Hong Kong, where annual Tiananmen vigils were once openly held, authorities have cracked down under a sweeping national security law.
Activist Chow Hang-tung began a 36-hour hunger strike to commemorate the anniversary and highlight the suppression of dissent. Police detained several individuals attempting silent tributes around Victoria Park, where vigils have now been banned.
Chow called for an official apology over her imprisonment and for recognition of the victims, a sentiment echoed by families known as the Tiananmen Mothers who have waited decades for acknowledgment.
Remembering the Past Amid Continued Suppression
The massacre remains a taboo topic within China, where online references and public discussions are censored. Yet, commemorations persist abroad, such as at Taipei’s Liberty Square, where people gather to honor the victims.
The memory of Tiananmen continues to inspire calls for justice, even as Chinese authorities seek to silence dissent. As Zhang Xianling, mother of a victim, said, “The lights in Victoria Park may have been blown out, but the sparks of justice will glow in the hearts of every conscientious person.”
