Today marks the 35th anniversary of the violent suppression of peaceful pro-democracy protests of 1989 in Tiananmen Square, Beijing. Remembering the events and honouring those who were killed, detained, or went missing is crucial for future generations and the collective memory.

The European Union stands in solidarity with the families of the victims and calls on the Chinese authorities to acknowledge these events and take concrete steps towards accountability. The legal safeguards and due process rights of those detained in connection with the 1989 events, or with activities to commemorate them, should be respected. 

The recent measures to curtail commemorations and censor discussions about Tiananmen Square in Hong Kong and elsewhere are concerning for the European Union as they highlight the challenges faced by those advocating for human rights and fundamental freedoms within China. 

The European Union remains committed to engage with China on human rights and fundamental freedoms through dialogue and cooperation.