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The Commonwealth has secured the release of a University of Melbourne professor accused of espionage by the Iranian government.
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Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert, a lecturer at the University of Melbourne convicted of espionage in Iran, has been released from detention after serving over two years of a 10-year prison sentence.
Dr Moore-Gilbert’s release was secured in exchange for three Iranians detained overseas.
In a statement, the academic, which has maintained her innocence, thanked the Morrison government for its support throughout wat she described as a "long and traumatic ordeal".
"I have nothing but respect, love and admiration for the great nation of Iran and its warm-hearted, generous and brave people," she added.
"It is with bittersweet feelings that I depart your country, despite the injustices which I have been subjected to.
"I came to Iran as a friend and with friendly intentions, and depart Iran with those sentiments not only still intact, but strengthened."
Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne said Dr Moore-Gilbert’s release was “an absolute priority” for the government, which has consistently rejected the grounds on which the Australian was detained.
“In full consultation with her family, Dr Moore-Gilbert’s release was achieved through diplomatic engagement with the Iranian government,” Minister Payne said.
“This outcome demonstrates the value of professional and determined work, in the most appropriate way for each case, to resolve complex and sensitive consular cases.
“I thank those dedicated officials and all others involved for their efforts.”
Minister Payne added, “I wish Dr Moore-Gilbert well in her recovery and her return to life in Australia. No doubt, as she recovers, she will draw on the same strength and determination that helped her get through her period of detention.
“I also commend the endurance, trust and resilience of Dr Moore-Gilbert’s family, friends and university colleagues throughout this period.”
The University of Melbourne has also welcomed the lecturer’s release, with vice-chancellor Duncan Maskell confirming that Dr Moore-Gilbert is “safe and well and in strong spirits”.
“Our university community is delighted that Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert has been released and will be coming home to her family and friends. We have waited a long time for this day,” Professor Maskell said.
“This has been a very difficult period and we thank the federal government and the Department of Foreign Affairs for their relentless efforts to secure her safe release.
“The university is grateful that Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert has now been released and will return to her family, friends and the broader university community. Thank you to everyone involved in her successful release.”
[Related: US sanctions Iranian state-sponsored cyber actors]
