WASHINGTON (Kyodo) -- U.S. Secretary of State Rubio on Wednesday criticized Chinese authorities for attempting to erase memories of the bloody 1989 military crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

"Chinese students, workers and other civilians who lost their lives had gathered to exercise their natural rights and demand democratic reforms and accountability for corruption. We remember their lives and honor their legacy," Rubio said in a statement issued on the eve of the 37th anniversary of the incident.

The crushing of the peaceful demonstrations in the heart of the Chinese capital on June 4, 1989, which left at least hundreds dead, remains a taboo in China.

The Chinese government has consistently denied any wrongdoing, first describing the protests as a "counterrevolutionary riot," then as "political turmoil" that was settled and requires no further attention.

Rubio said, "No amount of censorship can erase the past," adding that "those who sacrificed to uphold their unalienable rights of free expression and peaceful assembly will be vindicated someday."

However, his statement was about half as long as last year's text, marking the 36th anniversary, amid U.S. President Donald Trump's softer stance on China.

Despite intense geopolitical rivalry and disputes over numerous issues, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing in mid-May and agreed to stabilize bilateral relations in the years ahead.