After 3 Years In Chinese Detention, Australian Journalist Returns Home

Australian journalist Cheng Lei has finally returned home after enduring three years of detention in China. Cheng's release marks a significant milestone as the current centre-left Australian leadership endeavours to repair relations with its most prominent trading partner. This remarkable development brings an end to a challenging chapter for Cheng, her family, and indeed, all of Australia.

Lei's Detention

Cheng Lei's detention occurred during a tumultuous phase in China-Australia relations, characterized by diplomatic strains under a conservative government. However, as the winds of change blew with the installation of a centre-left government, efforts to mend ties with  China gained momentum. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese proudly announced Cheng's return, emphasizing its importance not only to her family but to all Australians.

Lei, a high-profile anchor who covered business and politics for CGTN, China Central Television's English-language state broadcaster, was initially detained in August 2020. Her detention coincided with then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison's repeated calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus. This move led to Chinese retaliatory measures, including imposing substantial tariffs on Australian barley, beef, wine, and other goods. Many suspected Lei's detention was part of this diplomatic dispute.

The Ordeal and Diplomatic Tensions

Lei was formally arrested six months after her initial detention and charged with "providing state secrets to foreign forces." The timing of her arrest raised eyebrows as it followed Australia's call for a United Nations investigation into alleged widespread sexual abuse in Chinese detention centres in Xinjiang. This further fueled tensions between the two nations.

I am pleased to confirm that Ms Cheng Lei has arrived safely home in Australia, and has been reunited with her two children and her family.

I spoke with her on the phone this afternoon. This is an outcome the Australian government has been seeking for a long time. pic.twitter.com/ukcoSR9oE3

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) October 11, 2023

Nevertheless, Prime Minister Albanese's government, which took office last year, has been diligently working to reset relations. Positive developments in recent months have included China removing tariffs on barley and relaxing restrictions on coal and hay exports. Furthermore, ministerial visits, which had been halted for several years, have resumed. In a significant step, Prime Minister Albanese is expected to visit Beijing soon, marking the first such trip by an Australian leader in seven years.

A Diplomatic Triumph

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin announced Lei's deportation after serving her sentence, which had not been disclosed following a closed-door trial in March last year. Lei had been sentenced to two years and 11 months in prison for providing state secrets overseas. Her total detention period was extended to three years.

Prime Minister Albanese revealed that he had raised the issue of Lei's detention with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and other officials. However, her case was not only a matter of concern for governments but also for academics and members of Australia's Chinese business community.

In an open letter penned during her more than 1,000 days in detention, Lei expressed her longing for her home country. She wrote, "It is not the same in here; I haven't seen a tree in three years. I miss the sun." The letter poignantly describes her yearning for the warmth of her homeland.

Lei's partner, Nick Coyle, Executive Director of the China-Australia Chamber of Commerce, had previously voiced concerns about her well-being. However, he later noted the presence of goodwill from both sides in resolving the issue. 

Her return home reflects the persistent diplomatic efforts of both countries and the tireless work of advocates seeking justice for her. As Australia and China navigate the complexities of their relationship, Lei's release offers a glimmer of optimism and a renewed opportunity for dialogue and cooperation.

Suggested Reading: China's Silent Crisis: Repression Of Women, Children Unveiled At UNHRC