In its statement granting Mr Assange asylum, the country said: "We can state that there is a risk that [Assange] will be persecuted politically... We trust the UK will offer the necessary guarantees so that both governments can act adequately and properly respect international rights and the right of asylum. We also trust the excellent relationship the two countries have will continue."
Assange said Ecuador was "courageous" and thanked President Correa and the embassy staff. In a separate statement, WikiLeaks condemned the "menacing show of force" by police and said any transgression against the "sanctity" of the embassy would be a "shameful act".
