Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleStuti MishraTuesday 11 August 2026 14:07 BSTAustralian PM urged to apologise over joke about melons gifted by Japan’s TakaichiAustralian 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 fullAustralian PM urged to apologise over joke about melons gifted by Japan’s TakaichiMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in