Albanese Tells Reporter to ‘Chill Out’ When Asked About ‘The Boss’ Comment Regarding Narendra Modi

Albanese Tells Reporter to ‘Chill Out’ When Asked About ‘The Boss’ Comment Regarding Narendra Modi

A Challenge to the “Boss” Remark

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese found himself in a tight spot recently, as he was questioned over his previous praise of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This came in the wake of allegations of the Indian government’s involvement in an assassination in Canada. During a visit to Sydney, Albanese had referred to Modi as “the boss”. He defended this statement by stating that it merely reflected the warm reception that Modi received from the Indian diaspora in Australia. He declined to comment on the assassination allegations, referring to the confidential nature of intelligence sharing within the Five Eyes alliance.

Canada’s Claims and India’s Rebuttal

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stirred up a hornet’s nest when he claimed that there was “credible evidence” of India’s involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh leader, in June. Trudeau stated that he had raised the issue with Modi at the G20 summit. India’s Ministry of External Affairs swiftly dismissed these allegations as “absurd”.

Australia’s Response to the Allegations

In response to these claims, the Australian government released a statement expressing deep concern. The statement, issued by a spokesperson for Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, emphasized the importance of sovereignty, rule of law, and free speech. It also highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in Australia. The spokesperson confirmed that Australia had expressed its concerns to India at senior levels.

Reaffirming Australia-India Relations

Despite the controversy, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of Australia’s relationships with India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The Australian government has been working to strengthen trade and security ties with India in recent years, particularly in the context of tensions with China. This underlines the delicate balance that nations must maintain in international relations, even amidst serious allegations and disputes.