5 Western diplomats make surprise appearance at Hong Kong’s former Tiananmen vigil site, Victoria Park, on 35th anniversary
- European Union office deputy head Matthias Kaufmann among at least five diplomats visiting Causeway Bay’s Victoria Park on June 4 anniversary
- Political scientist Lau Siu-kai says diplomats may be trying to express ‘solidarity’ with those who want to mark anniversary, but ‘they don’t dare to go too far and only try to send a subtle message’
At least five Western diplomats, including European Union office deputy head Matthias Kaufmann, made a surprise appearance on Tuesday night at Hong Kong’s Victoria Park, which previously hosted candlelight vigils marking the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown.
In response, the Hong Kong government stressed in a statement that some rights and freedoms could be restricted in accordance with the law in order to protect national security, public safety and order.
“If someone violates the law, law enforcement agencies will follow up in accordance with the law,” a spokesman said, warning also that there were still forces trying to undermine Hong Kong’s social stability and threaten public security.
Without taking any media questions, Kaufmann, as well as German Consul General Stefan Bredohl and Dutch Consul General Arjen van den Berg were seen walking through the park together on the 35th anniversary of the crackdown at around 7.30pm surrounded by police and members of the press, the time when the vigils used to be held.
The trio wore business suits, while the EU representative was also seen browsing the food carnival being organised by pro-Beijing groups on the football pitches in the park.
French envoy Christile Drulhe and Belgian diplomat David Lomastro were also at the park, but in a separate group, according to a source.
Japanese Consul General Kenichi Okada was also seen walking around at Victoria Park on Tuesday night, according to an Instagram post of online media, although the Post was unable to verify his appearance.
