Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who has been detained in China on charges related to national security, recently shared her experience in a heartfelt message to her home country. This marks her first public statement since her arrest in 2020.

Cheng, aged 48, was previously a business television anchor for a Chinese state-owned network before her detention in August 2020. She was accused of sharing classified information with a foreign nation. Her “love letter,” as she called it, was conveyed to consular staff during a visit and later released by her partner.

“I can only bask in sunlight for 10 hours each year within my cell,” Cheng expressed.

“Three years have passed without the sight of a single tree. I find solace in reliving memories of bushwalks, rivers, lakes, beaches adorned with swims, picnics, and captivating sunsets. Silently, I mouth the names of places I’ve explored and roads I’ve traversed.”

Cheng remains awaiting a verdict after a trial held over a year ago in a closed court in Beijing. The exact nature of her alleged offenses remains undisclosed.

The Australian government has repeatedly expressed concerns about her detention. This detention occurred amidst broader tensions between China and Australia, which have been gradually easing after China imposed restrictions on Australian exports in a diplomatic dispute.

China, asserting the importance of respecting its judicial sovereignty, recently lifted sanctions on Australian barley. This move has raised hopes that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese may consider an invitation to visit Beijing this year.

Calls for the Australian government to secure Cheng’s release have been mounting. Albanese remarked that the timing of his potential visit to China is not based on transactions. He found Cheng’s statement poignant, noting her profound connection to Australia.

Cheng’s partner, Nick Coyle, shared his perspective with Reuters, emphasizing that Cheng’s return and reunification with her children would significantly improve the bilateral relationship. This shift is particularly meaningful given the ongoing efforts of both nations to mend ties.

Having migrated to Australia as a 10-year-old, Cheng reflects on her upbringing in a diverse and multicultural nation. She recounts that her prison bedding is sunned for a mere two hours annually, returning with warmth. “Cocooned in the quilt, I imagine the embrace of my family,” she wrote.

Above all, Cheng reveals, “My heart aches for my children.” At the ages of 11 and 14, her children are residing in Australia under the care of their grandmother.

Penny Wong, the Australian Foreign Minister, conveyed her thoughts on Cheng’s message. Wong stated that Cheng’s message underscores her deep affection for their nation. Wong reiterated Australia’s continuous advocacy for Cheng and called for adherence to fundamental principles of justice, fair proceedings, and humane treatment for her.