Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has confirmed she spoke to Australian journalist Peter Greste after his release from jail overnight, describing him as 'immensely relieved'.
Ms Bishop told media in Sydney this morning that Mr Greste was keen to get back to Australia after 400 days in a Cairo prison.
"He was immensely relieved and he was desperate to come home to Australia and reunite with his family," she said.
She said Mr Greste had expressed "heartfelt thanks" to the people of Australia, the government and journalists around the world for keeping his story in the spotlight.
Ms Bishop said Greste’s release had come after a mounted campaign from Australia and other governments around the world.
"Australia has been at forefront of calling for his release," she said.
"We haven’t stopped in working as hard as we can."
Ms Bishop made special mention to the government of Latvia which, given Greste’s Latvian heritage, had also fought hard for the journalist’s release.
She said Greste would need some time to adjust after his ordeal and sounded “somewhat bewildered” over the phone.
"He wants a bit of rest and recreation and to be reunited with friends and family as soon as possible," she said.
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