Australian academic given suspended death sentence by China

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – Incarcerated Australian academic Yang Jun has been given a suspended death sentence by a Chinese court, Canberra said Monday.

Chinese-born Yang Jun, or Yang Hengjun, 59, was convicted for espionage by Chinese authorities.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Canberra was “appalled” over the sentencing, calling it “harrowing news for Dr Yang, his family and all who have supported him.”

The sentence can be commuted to life imprisonment after two years of good behavior.

“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,” Wong further said.

The academic was detained in January 2019 at the airport in Guangzhou when he landed in the Chinese city with his family after flying from the US.

The verdict was delayed several times after a closed trial in May 2021.