Julian Assange Case: Australia’s Foreign Minister Wong Urges Swift Resolution as Detention Drags On

Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed her concern about the lengthy legal proceedings surrounding the Julian Assange case, the Wikileaks founder.

On Saturday, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that the case has gone on for far too long and emphasized the need for its resolution. (Photo: Epoch Times)

Australia’s Foreign Minister Wong Urges Swift Resolution on Julian Assange Case

Julian Assange, an Australian citizen currently held in custody in Britain, has been trapped in a legal battle against extradition to the United States.

According to the U.S. News, the U.S. authorities are seeking his custody to face 18 charges related to the release of confidential U.S. military records and diplomatic cables in 2010.

During a press conference in Brisbane following a meeting between Australia and the U.S., Minister Wong conveyed Canberra’s stance on the matter, making it clear that they are eager to see the Julian Assange case conclude. Alongside her, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Minister Richard Marles, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were present.

Minister Wong acknowledged that representations had been made on behalf of the Julian Assange case both in public and private forums. However, she pointed out that there were limitations on what the Australian government could do until the legal proceedings reached their conclusion.

She also mentioned that Julian Assange had recently filed a renewal of appeal application in the UK. It was made clear by Wong that the Australian government is not a party to the ongoing legal proceedings, and intervention in the matter is not within their purview.

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U.S. and Australia Discuss Julian Assange Case in Bilateral Talks

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that the issue of the Julian Assange case had been raised during the bilateral talks. He acknowledged the sensitivity of the matter and expressed his understanding of the views held by Australians regarding the situation.

Blinken drew attention to the seriousness of the charges faced by Julian Assange in the United States, noting that he stands accused of being involved in one of the most significant breaches of classified information in U.S. history. The alleged actions by Assange are deemed to pose a grave risk to national security, further complicating the matter.

Australia has been actively supporting efforts to secure Julian Assange’s release, particularly as his potential extradition to the U.S. remains a contentious issue.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously expressed his frustration over the prolonged detention in May. As the case continues to draw international attention and debate, the call for a swift resolution has gained momentum.

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