Today, on the 25th anniversary of the tragic events in Tienanmen Square, we remember those who lost their lives striving for democracy. I appeal to the Chinese leadership to release all those still detained in connection with the events of 4 June 1989.

It is deplorable that recently there has been a renewed wave of arrests with relatives, intellectuals and others commemorating the dead and trying to kick off a debate on the events of 25 years ago being taken into custody. I call for the release of these journalists, civil rights activist and relatives.

One of my tasks is the regular and intensive conduct of the Human Rights Dialogue with China – an important element of our comprehensive relations with the country. I have thus invited my Chinese interlocutors to Berlin to continue our joint dialogue on all relevant issues.

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