In Hong Kong, the trial has begun against a Chinese-Australian journalist for disseminating state secrets. Because the case is being heard behind closed doors, the Australian ambassador, who wanted to assist Cheng Lei, was denied access to the courtroom.
Cheng was arrested in August 2020 on suspicion of passing on classified information abroad. Details on that have not been disclosed. This may be because the information is confidential, but China also uses such accusations to combat unwelcome news reports.
Cheng was a prominent host of the English-language state broadcaster China Global Television Network. She has dual citizenship because she moved to Australia with her parents as a child, before moving back to pursue a career in her native country.
‘Disturbing, unsatisfactory and deeply regrettable’
The Australian ambassador had come over from Beijing to attend the start of the trial, but was stopped by security guards. “This is deeply disturbing, unsatisfactory and deeply regrettable,” Graham Fletcher told press outside the courtroom.
Fletcher added that Australia has also received no information about the indictment. Diplomats were, however, allowed to visit Cheng occasionally during her 19-month detention. She would make it up to the circumstances.
Cheng’s family has expressed thanks for the diplomatic assistance through the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs. “Both of her children and elderly parents miss her greatly and sincerely hope they can be reunited with her soon.”
–
