Australia, Britain have closest bonds - Malcolm Turnbull

  • 06/09/2016
John Key and Malcolm Turnbull (Getty)
John Key and Malcolm Turnbull (Getty)

The famous 'bromance' between John Key and Malcolm Turnbull could be over after the Australian Prime Minister proclaimed his country's love for Britain on social media.

While at the G20 world leaders' summit, Mr Turnbull tweeted: "There couldn't be two countries with closer bonds than Australia and Britain. Much to discuss with Prime Minister May."

Australia, Britain have closest bonds - Malcolm Turnbull

The twitter post quickly drew some indignant responses. Alex Dunnin replied: "Eh? Isn't this what we say to New Zealand?"

Australia, Britain have closest bonds - Malcolm Turnbull

Michael Cosgrove said: "I wouldn't get too excited Theresa. He told John Key that last week & Obama the week before."

Australia, Britain have closest bonds - Malcolm Turnbull

New Zealand isn't a member of the G20, so Mr Key is not at the summit in China.

Mr Key and Mr Turnbull have similar merchant banking backgrounds and the same moderate-conservative political views. The mutual admiration began when, upon becoming Australian Prime Minister, Mr Turnbull praised Mr Key for his leadership of New Zealand. But it seems those first flames are fading.

A spokeswoman for Prime Minister John Key told Fairfax the trans-Tasman relationship is in good shape.

"Australia is our closest neighbour and biggest trading partner and both Prime Minister Turnbull and Prime Minister Key believe our countries can work even more closely together.

"Mr Key is looking forward to catching up with Prime Minister Turnbull at the East Asia Summit, and the Pacific Islands Forum later this week."

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