Calls for the release of Chinese Chinese journalist Cheng Le.
Australian journalist Cheng Lei was released from prison in China with renewed pleas.
It is now one year since the journalist has begun being detained and arrested on charges of suspected illegal provision of state secrets in foreign countries by the Chinese authorities.
The Government of Australia said that today it is still “seriously concerned” with the detention and welfare of Ms Cheng.
In a statement, Foreign Minister Marise Payne said that the government “raised these issues regularly in senior positions.”
“We are particularly concerned that for one year, the reasons for Ms Cheng’s arrest remain lacking in transparency.
“We expect to comply, in accordance with international rules, with fundamental standards of justice, fairness and humane treatment.”
The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) of Australia published today an open letter calling for an immediate release.
In the letter, with the signature of over 50 journalists, Ms Cheng described herself as “a respected and reputable journalist.”
“We believe that she did nothing wrong and that during her continuing detention, she is seriously concerned about her health, safety and care,” read the letter.
“He never explained the arrest, detention and charges against her.”
No proof was submitted. There was nothing to suggest after 12 months that she did anything wrong.”
Ms. Payne said Ms. Cheng, and her family were assisted by the Australian government.
“More recently on 26 July, our officials visited her regularly,” she said.
“Throughout this difficult period our thoughts remain with Ms Cheng and her family.”
