Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has acknowledged the legal proceedings underway for Julian Assange, saying this was not something that happened in the last 24 hours and he hopes to say more after proceedings.
Speaking at a press conference in Canberra, Albanese said the government recognises that these proceedings are sensitive.
“This is not something that has happened in the last 24-hours, this is something that has been considered, patient, worked through and in a calibrated way which is how … Australia conducts itself in our nation,” he said.
“Given those proceedings are happening literally in real-time, it is not appropriate to provide further commentary.
“You will be aware of the assistance being provided to Mr Assange, including the presence right now of high commissioner Smith as well as ambassador Rudd there as part of providing that support.
“I have been very clear as Labor leader and as prime minister regardless of what your views about Mr Assange’s activities, his case has dragged on for too long. There is nothing to be gained from his continued incarceration and we want him brought home to Australia.
“I will have more to to say about once these legal proceedings have concluded which I hope will be very soon.”
Source Agencies
