From Alejandra Diaz
Silvio Berluscon, the italian prime minister, has come under fire after describing US President-elect Barack Obama as "young, handsome and also tanned."
This president, well known in Europe for his gaffes, sexist remarks and blunt language, was savaged by opposition politicians at home for the bizarre remark, saying that this comment "seriously damages the image and dignity of our country on the international scene."
Italy's only black MP, Jean-Leonard Touadi, said Mr Berlusconi had embarrassed his country.
But as his opponents demanded an apology be issued, Mr Berlusconi said the remark was in fact "a great compliment".
He said his critics lacked a sense of humour, adding: "God save us from imbeciles. How can you take such a great compliment negatively?"
Mr Berlusconi made this remarks after a meeting with the Russian president in Moscow. Smiling and speaking in Italian, he said through a translator: "I told the president that (Obama) has everything needed in order to reach deals with him – he's young, handsome and even tanned."
This president, well known in Europe for his gaffes, sexist remarks and blunt language, was savaged by opposition politicians at home for the bizarre remark, saying that this comment "seriously damages the image and dignity of our country on the international scene."
Italy's only black MP, Jean-Leonard Touadi, said Mr Berlusconi had embarrassed his country.
But as his opponents demanded an apology be issued, Mr Berlusconi said the remark was in fact "a great compliment".
He said his critics lacked a sense of humour, adding: "God save us from imbeciles. How can you take such a great compliment negatively?"
Mr Berlusconi made this remarks after a meeting with the Russian president in Moscow. Smiling and speaking in Italian, he said through a translator: "I told the president that (Obama) has everything needed in order to reach deals with him – he's young, handsome and even tanned."
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