Assange hopeful for Biden/Albanese talks
Dominique Pradalié, president of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), met Julian Assange in Belmarsh Prison, London, for the second time on 21 October.
Speaking outside the prison, she said:
“Julian told me that he is enormously grateful for everyone campaigning for his release, particularly among journalists and their trades unions. He is glad that a clear link is being made between his case and broader initiatives to support free speech around the world. He expressed his hope that a visit this week between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Joe Biden might lead to a route by which his persecution can be brought to an end. He expressed his deep fears for the plight of journalists in Gaza and said that he was concerned about the enormous challenges they were faced to continue reporting. He told me of his delight that the City of Rome had made him honouree citizen. I plan to now suggest to all capital cities that they take similar initiatives.”
Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary, said:
“Julian Assange is threatened with prosecution for activities that are the daily work of journalists all over the world. For the sake of free expression, it is vital that these charges are dropped and governments commit themselves to safeguarding the work of journalists.”