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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Tracy Woodard from InTown Cares (left) and Lauren Hopper from Mercy Care organization work with residents at the Copperton Street encampment in August 2024. 
(Miguel Martinez / AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez