China's Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has been blasted after he insisted the basic rights of Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who has been detained in a Beijing prison for almost two years, were 'well protected'.
Mr Xiao was pressed on whether China would make practical moves to release the former television anchor, who was accused of leaking state secrets, during a speech at the National Press Club on Wednesday.
"There are a couple of Australian citizens in China that are under custody according to Chinese rules and laws, and their basic rights are well protected, don't worry about that," he told reporters. Australia Researcher for Human Rights Watch Sophie McNeill blasted Mr Xiao for his claims, telling SkyNews.com.au it was"alarming" the ambassador insisted the rights of jailed Australians were"well protected"."Because that's absolutely not what's happening right now."
"The details of the charges against her remain unknown, she was tried in secret, the Australian ambassador was not allowed in the courtroom when this happened and there is no details about when she may be sentenced or what her future is, her family have raised concerns about her health issues and alleging there have been even restrictions on food.
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