Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, expressed his respect for those who lost their lives 20 years ago and spoke in their defense.
In a statement Thursday, the Dalai Lama noted that those who participated in the protests were neither anti-communist, nor anti-socialist.
The Dalai Lama said that those who participated in the protests were speaking out against corruption and in defense of the Chinese people's constitutional rights.
The statement said their demands truly conformed with the underlying beliefs of the Chinese Communist government. "It is my hope that the Chinese leaders have the courage and far-sightedness to embrace more truly egalitarian principles and pursue a policy of greater accommodation and tolerance of diverse views. A policy of openness and realism can lead to greater trust and harmony within China and enhance its international standing as a truly great nation." he added.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and TibetNet.