Japan’s defence minister heads to Australia to meet Marles in wake of melon-gate controversy

Japan's defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi visits Australia on Tuesday to meet with Australian defence minister and deputy prime minister Richard Marles. The Guardian reports this is the highest-level engagement since controversy emerged over Australian PM Anthony Albanese's comments about a gift of melons from Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi. Discussions will focus on Australia's acquisition of Japan's Mogami-class frigates and enhanced security cooperation.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton