Senior Chinese diplomat Chen Yonglin is surrounded by the media in Sydney on June 4.

He had been in hiding with his wife Jin Ping, 38, and their 6-year-old daughter for a week and feared persecution if he returns.

"They are searching for me. I heard they are looking for me everywhere, especially in the Chinese community," Chen said.

The diplomat said he met a senior Department of Immigration officer in Sydney on May 26, who rang the consulate to confirm his identity. Chen then met a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade protocol officer on May 31.

The consul was told his request for political asylum had been rejected but he could apply for a protection visa.

The Japan Times Weekly: June 11, 2005
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