News in brief

By The Associated Press

Silence, heavy security mark anniversary of Tiananmen crackdown

BEIJING | Security in Beijing is tight around Tiananmen Square as China marks 35 years since a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests.

China has long quashed any public memory of the military crackdown on months-long protests at the heart of its capital. Hundreds, if not thousands, are believed to have been killed in an overnight operation that ended on June 4, 1989. It was a turning point in modern Chinese history as Communist Party hardliners embraced control instead of political reforms.

Hong Kong police arrested four people and swarmed others who tried to protest or commemorate. With vigils silenced in Hong Kong, commemorative events have grown abroad. Hundreds turned out Tuesday in Washington, D.C., London and Taiwan to mark the anniversary.

Slovenia recognizes Palestinian state

LJUBLJANA, Slovenia | Slovenia recognized a Palestinian state on Tuesday after its parliament voted overwhelmingly in favor of the move, following in the recent steps of three other European countries.

Slovenia’s government endorsed a motion last week to recognize a Palestinian state, and sent the proposal to the parliament for final approval, which was needed for the decision to take effect.

Lawmakers on Tuesday voted with 52 in favor and no one against recognition in the 90-seat parliament. The remaining lawmakers were not present for the vote.

—From AP reports