Australia has condemned China's treatment of a dual national journalist after the ambassador and officials were blocked from entering court.
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Cheng Lei, a former news anchor of Chinese state media, on Thursday faced a closed trial in Beijing on charges of illegally supplying state secrets overseas.
China doesn't recognise dual nationality and hasn't provided Australian officials with details of the charges.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne says while Australia respects the sovereignty of China's legal system, Ms Cheng's trial has lacked transparency.
"Australia's ambassador to China and officials were present at the court entrance, reiterating Australia's support for Ms Cheng and our concerns with what has been a closed and opaque process," Senator Payne said.
"Regrettably, the Ambassador was not permitted entry to the court. The continuing lack of transparency is concerning and further undermines confidence."
Ms Cheng was detained in August 2020 and has not been allowed to speak to her two young children in Australia since her arrest.
"Following Ms Lei's trial, we renew our calls for China to uphold these principles and to allow her unimpeded access to her lawyer," Senator Payne said.
"Australia stands by Ms Cheng and her family at this difficult time."
Australian Associated Press
