Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, during an interaction with a reporter, suggested that the journalist should "take it easy" after being queried about any regrets he may have had for referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "the boss." Albanese had used this moniker for PM Modi during the latter's visit to Sydney in May, comparing his popularity to that of legendary rockstar Bruce Springsteen, who is also affectionately called "the boss" by fans.
At an event held for the Indian diaspora in Sydney at the Qudos Bank Arena, Albanese stated, "The last time I saw someone on this stage was Bruce Springsteen, and he did not get the welcome that Prime Minister Modi has got. Prime Minister Modi is the boss."
In response to the reporter's inquiry, Albanese clarified that he had simply intended to highlight the warm reception that PM Modi received from the Indian diaspora in Sydney. He explained that he had welcomed Prime Minister Modi to Australia in a similar manner as he would any other guest.
The reporter also brought up concerns raised by Australia regarding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations against the Indian government regarding the killing of a Khalistani terrorist. Albanese was asked if he had discussed this issue with PM Modi during the recently concluded G20 Summit in Delhi.
In response, the Australian PM indicated that he would not discuss matters related to security and intelligence during a press conference.
Earlier, a spokesperson for Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong had issued a statement expressing the government's concerns about Trudeau's allegations against India. The Canadian Prime Minister had suggested a "potential link" between the Indian government and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist who was killed in June.
Â
