Assange was speaking to Dominique Pradalié the president of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), who visited him in prison earlier today (Tuesday 8 August). She was able to tell him that journalists, and many others, around the world are campaigning each day for his release and that his International Press Card has been renewed. Assange is a long-time member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (the Australian journalists’ union).

Pradalié said: “I visited as a friend of Julian’s wife, Stella. I am pleased to say that he was in good spirits and maintains a keen interest in world affairs”.

The International Federation of Journalists, which represents 600,000 journalists in more than 140 countries, has campaigned against Assange’s extradition since publication of the US charges.

Pradalié said: “The charges against Julian – finding a whistleblower and encouraging them to share evidence – are actions that any investigative journalist might take. If this prosecution is successful, it will pave the way for the US to pursue any reporter who is handed classified documents, as well as legitimising repressive regimes the world over when they try to make the lives of journalists difficult. It is also worth noting that the truth of Assange’s revelations has never been disputed.”

Assange reports that he has a caged window in his cell, and a radio that allows him to keep up with the world outside. He does, however, request, that he be granted a typewriter, so that he may efficiently record his thoughts. He has lodged a request with the prison authorities that he be allowed one, but to date one has not been forthcoming.

Pradalié undertook to press the issue of a typewriter, and promised to return to visit again in the near future.