Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has brushed off demands for an apology after a podcast clip surfaced in which he made crude jokes about a gift from Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The remarks, made during an interview recorded at his official residence, have reignited a political row over the leader's conduct.
In the conversation with host Nikki Osborne, Albanese described the present—a premium Japanese royal melon—as "strange" and joked about it being smuggled through customs. When Osborne suggested the fruit might have been brought in secretly, Albanese raised his hands and said, "Got a couple of melons." The host then replied, "She came in looking like Pamela Anderson."
The comments were made during the same interview in which Albanese had already apologised for saying he would "shag" singer Kylie Minogue. That earlier remark drew criticism, but the melon joke has now sparked fresh outrage from Australia's opposition, which accuses the prime minister of insulting a close ally.
Asked in parliament on Tuesday whether he would say sorry for his "disrespectful behaviour," Albanese responded: "I reject the assertion in the question." He added, "Prime Minister Takaichi is a friend of Australia and a friend of mine."
Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong also defended the prime minister, saying the comments were not intended as an insult. "The prime minister has been clear that he did not mean for those comments to be interpreted in the way they have been by those opposite," she said, referring to the opposition.
In Japan, premium melons are a luxury item, often costing more than AUS$270 (€164) each, according to Japan's former ambassador to Australia. They are typically given as high-status gifts, making the joke particularly sensitive in diplomatic circles.
The incident has raised questions about the tone of Australia's engagement with its Asian partners, especially as Canberra seeks to deepen ties with Tokyo on security and trade. Japan is one of Australia's most important strategic allies in the Indo-Pacific, and the two countries have been strengthening cooperation in recent years.
Political analysts note that while the gaffe may not seriously damage bilateral relations, it could undermine Albanese's image as a statesman. The prime minister has faced repeated criticism over his informal style, which some see as refreshing but others view as unbecoming of a national leader.
The opposition has called for a formal apology, but Albanese has so far refused, insisting that his remarks were taken out of context. The controversy comes at a delicate time for the Australian government, which is navigating complex diplomatic challenges, including tensions with China and the ongoing AUKUS submarine deal.
As the row continues, observers will be watching whether Albanese's refusal to apologise further strains his relationship with Japan, or whether the issue fades as quickly as it emerged. For now, the prime minister appears determined to move on, but the political fallout may linger.
