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Julian Assange
Julian Assange speaks from the balcony of the Ecuadorean embassy in London, where he has been staying for six months. Photograph: Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP
Julian Assange speaks from the balcony of the Ecuadorean embassy in London, where he has been staying for six months. Photograph: Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP

Julian Assange 'open' to talks to end extradition row

This article is more than 11 years old
WikiLeaks founder thanks supporters during appearance on balcony of Ecuadorean embassy in London

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange said on Thursday night the "door is open" for talks to break the deadlock over his campaign to avoid extradition to Sweden. He made a rare public appearance on a balcony at the Ecuadorean embassy in London to mark the six-month anniversary of his sudden arrival at the building.

He has since been granted political asylum by Ecuador's government but has remained inside the embassy.

The Australian will be arrested if he steps outside as he has broken his bail conditions. He thanked his supporters, who stood in the street outside, some carrying lighted candles.

He said: "Six months ago I entered this building. It has become my home, my office and my refuge. Thanks to the principled stance of the Ecuadorean government and the support of its people, I am safe in this embassy and safe to speak from this embassy."

He said he had been sustained by the solidarity of his supporters and people around the world supporting WikiLeaks and freedom of the press.

"While my freedom is limited, I am still able to work and communicate, unlike the 232 journalists who are in jail tonight."

Assange is wanted for questioning in Sweden over allegations of sexual assault, which he denies.

He fears being sent to the United States to be questioned over his whistleblowing website.

He said on Thursday that the Pentagon claimed recently that the existence of WikiLeaks was an "ongoing crime".

Assange continued: "While that remains the case and while my government will not defend the journalism and publishing of WikiLeaks, I must remain here.

"However, the door is open, and the door has always been open, for anyone who wishes to use standard procedures to speak to me or guarantee my safe passage."

TV crews from across the world filmed the speech.

There was an added police presence outside the embassy.

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