The Australian Government is appalled that Australian citizen, Dr Yang Jun, has today received a suspended death sentence in Beijing.
We understand this can be commuted to life imprisonment after two years if the individual does not commit any serious crimes in the two-year period.
This is harrowing news for Dr Yang, his family and all who have supported him.
Our thoughts are with them. I acknowledge the acute distress they will all be feeling, after many years of uncertainty.
This period has been extraordinarily difficult. Like so many Australians, I am moved by Dr Yang’s strength, and the strength of his family and friends.
The Australian Government will be communicating our response in the strongest terms.
Dr Yang has been detained since January 2019 on national security charges. His verdict and sentence have been subject to repeated delays since his closed trial on 27 May 2021.
The Australian Government has advocated for Dr Yang with China at every opportunity, and at the highest levels. We have consistently called for basic standards of justice, procedural fairness and humane treatment for Dr Yang, in accordance with international norms and China’s legal obligations.
We will continue to press for Dr Yang’s interests and wellbeing, including appropriate medical treatment, and provide consular assistance to him and his family.
All Australians want to see Dr Yang reunited with his family. We will not relent in our advocacy.