Folks in Down-Under Land are crediting U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss with making a sort-of apology on behalf of the United States, for Edward Snowden’s disclosure of some embarrassing espionage practices by the Australian government.

Tony Abbott is currently engaged in his first visit to Washington as Australia’s prime minister.

Documents released by Snowden revealed that Australia had eavesdropped on the cell phones of the president of Indonesia, his wife and other members of his inner circle.

Senator Chambliss, who chaired a committee that investigated intelligence issues related to the September 11 attacks, told the Prime Minister that Australia was critical to the "five eyes" intelligence community that comprises the US, Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com