HONG KONG: Commemorations for the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre are continuing worldwide. However, there is a tight censor on any coverage or discussion of the event in China. People’s Liberation Army troops cracked down on June 4, 1989 on pro-democracy protesters gathered in and around Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Hundreds of people were killed and scores of them were arrested.

In central Taipei, capital of self-ruled Taiwan, a huge iconic ”Tank Man” who defied the military is being displayed. Tank Man is an artwork by Taiwanese artist Shake, inspired by a sketch of dissident Chinese artist Baidiucao.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council called on Beijing to “face up to historical mistakes and apologize as soon as possible for the crackdown.” “In the past 30 years, Beijing lacked the courage to calmly reflect on the historical significance of the June 4th Incident. Rather, they blocked the information and distorted the truth about it and tried to conceal the crime,” added the council.

Representatives of dozens of human rights groups, including Amnesty International are holding rallies in Washington D. C. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday, “the massacre still stirs the conscience of freedom-loving people around the world. We salute the heroes of the Chinese people who bravely stood up 30 years ago in Tiananmen Square to demand their rights.”

Thousands of people hold candles during a candlelight vigil on June 4, 2016 in Hong Kong.  Hong Kong is the only place on Chinese soil where mass commemorations are held. A candlelight vigil has been held in Victoria Park every year since 1990.

Today the Communist Party is stronger than ever, with President Xi Jinping recently declared to hold the position of supreme leader for his life. (Agencies)