Statement by the Press Secretary on the 25th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square

Twenty-five years ago, the United States deplored the use of violence to silence the voices of the peaceful demonstrators in and around Tiananmen Square.  Twenty-five years later, the United States continues to honor the memories of those who gave their lives in and around Tiananmen Square and throughout China, and we call on Chinese authorities to account for those killed, detained, or missing in connection with the events surrounding June 4, 1989.  
 
The United States will always speak out in support of the basic freedoms the protestors at Tiananmen Square sought, including the freedom of expression, the freedom of the press, and the freedoms of association and assembly.  These freedoms—which are enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, the Chinese Constitution, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—are values the United States champions around the world.  
 
The American people and government applaud China’s extraordinary social and economic progress over the past three decades and value good relations with the Chinese people and government.  Even as we continue our cooperation on areas of common interest, the United States will continue to be clear about our differences, and urge the Chinese government to guarantee the universal rights and fundamental freedoms that are the birthright of all Chinese citizens.

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