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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Stuti Mishra

Albanese won’t apologise to Japan PM Takaichi for melon gift joke

Anthony Albanese Japan Sanae Takaichi
  • Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has refused to apologise over an apparent joke regarding a gift of expensive crown melons from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
  • The controversy arose from a podcast appearance recorded in July, where Mr Albanese gestured towards his chest while discussing the formal gift.
  • Former Japanese ambassador Shingo Yamagami reignited the issue, accusing Mr Albanese of making a sexist joke that betrayed bilateral ties.
  • Opposition MPs demanded a personal apology, but Australian ministers and a diplomatic cable from Tokyo indicated there was no ill intent.
  • Mr Albanese defended the relationship in parliament, stating that strategic and diplomatic alignment between Australia and Japan has reached new heights.

IN FULL

Australian PM urged to apologise over joke about melons gifted by Japan’s Takaichi

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