Australian PM under fire for ‘melons’ gag about Japanese leader
Anthony Albanese sidestepped calls to apologise on Tuesday after a clip emerged of him engaging in crude banter about a gift from his Japanese counterpart.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced criticism after a clip emerged of him making crude jokes about a gift from his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Albanese had previously apologized for a comment he made about sexually assaulting singer Kylie Minogue in an interview last month. During a conversation with host Nikki Osborne, Albanese joked that he received a "strange" present - a Japanese royal melon - from Takaichi.
He then said, "Got a couple of melons." In Japan, these melons are considered a luxury item and can cost over A$270 (US$190). When asked if the host thought she smuggled the fruit through customs, Albanese responded, "Got a couple of melons." Opposition leader has called for Albanese to apologize for the "insulting" joke. Albanese rejected the assertion that his comments were meant to be insulting, stating that Takaichi is a friend of Australia and a friend of his.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong also rejected the accusations, stating that the prime minister has been clear about not intending for his comments to be interpreted in the manner they were.
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