Foreign Minister Calls on Beijing to Release Imprisoned Australian on Anniversary of Death Sentence
Australian citizen Yang Jun was sentenced to death by a Beijing court a year ago, with a two-year suspension that could potentially result in a life sentence.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong marked the anniversary of Yang Jun’s death sentence by condemning Beijing’s actions and pledging ongoing advocacy efforts on his behalf.
Yang Jun, also known as Yang Hengjun, an Australian citizen of Chinese descent, has been detained in Beijing since 2019 on espionage charges that Australia and he have both denied.
Yang, a writer supporting democracy, was arrested during a rare visit to China and has claimed he was subjected to torture and forced confessions while in custody.
Concerns have been raised by supporters about Yang’s health due to a kidney cyst, with worries that he may not receive proper medical care while in prison.
Wong acknowledged the difficult time Yang has faced both during the past year and the five years of detention leading up to his sentencing and expressed concerns about his health and well-being.
She emphasized that China has a responsibility to ensure fair treatment and humane conditions for Yang, in line with international standards.
The Australian government remains in contact with Yang and is committed to supporting him and working towards his reunion with his family.
Yang’s trial occurred in May 2021 at the Beijing No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court, with a delayed verdict being announced on February 2, 2024, sentencing him to death with a two-year reprieve for review.
Despite his sentence, officials in Canberra anticipate a reduction to life imprisonment, with all his personal assets confiscated.
Yang’s family confirmed that he does not intend to appeal the decision due to his deteriorating health and lengthy periods of neglect while in custody.
The Chinese government rejected Australian concerns, stating that Yang has received consular visits and notifications, and accused Australia of interfering in its judicial process and sovereignty.
While Australia was allowed to attend the sentencing, access to the trial was restricted due to alleged state secrets being involved.
