Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has condemned the decision of a Chinese court to hand down a suspended death sentence to Australian writer Yang Hengjun. Wong described the court's ruling as "shocking" and "appalling" and has called for an explanation from China's ambassador. The suspended death sentence could be commuted to life imprisonment after two years, contingent on good behavior, according to Chinese media reports. Yang Hengjun, an Australian citizen, writer, and democracy activist, has been detained in China since 2019 on charges of espionage, which he has consistently denied.

In a statement, Penny Wong expressed the Australian government's dismay, stating, "We are deeply troubled by the suspended death sentence handed down to Dr. Yang Hengjun in Beijing today. We understand that this sentence could be changed to life imprisonment after two years if there are no further serious offenses committed during that period. This is distressing news for Dr. Yang, his family, and all those who have supported him." Wong emphasized that Yang Hengjun has avenues for further appeal, and the government will continue to advocate on his behalf, urging for his release.

Australian officials were reportedly not permitted to attend Yang Hengjun's closed trial in 2021. Wong reiterated Australia's call for fair treatment and adherence to international standards of justice for Dr. Yang, as well as humane treatment in accordance with China's legal obligations. She reiterated the government's commitment to securing Yang's reunification with his family, promising unwavering advocacy efforts.

A supporter of Yang described his family as "shocked and devastated" by the news, which exceeded their worst expectations. They expressed their need for time to come to terms with the situation. In 2023, Yang Hengjun's family had written to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressing concerns about his deteriorating health and urging for his release during Albanese's visit to China.

Having been detained in China for nearly five years, Yang's family fears that time is running out to secure his release. They drew hope from China's recent decision to release former state TV anchor Cheng Lei. Yang's family expressed hope that similar diplomatic efforts could lead to his freedom. However, an Australian government source noted that Yang's case presents unique challenges compared to Cheng Lei's, without providing further details.

Daniela Gavshon, the Australia director at Human Rights Watch, criticized the inadequacy of diplomatic efforts, calling the Chinese court's decision an "outrageous outcome" and a result of Beijing's opaque justice system. Coalition Foreign Affairs spokesperson Simon Birmingham also expressed dismay at the decision, emphasizing the vast differences between the Australian and Chinese systems of justice. He stressed the importance of prioritizing Yang's case in discussions with China, emphasizing the need for careful steps toward securing his release.

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