SYDNEY, Aug. 26 -- Australian politician Clive Palmer on Tuesday apologized to the Chinese embassy in Canberra for calling the Chinese government "bastards" and "mongrels" in a media interview.

In a written statement, Palmer said: "I most sincerely apologize for any insult to the Chinese people caused by any of the language I used during my appearance on the ABC television program Q&A.

"... what I said on Q&A was an insult to Chinese people everywhere and I wish to assure them they have my most genuine and sincere apology, that I am sorry that I said the things I said on the program."

Palmer's comments last week caused widespread condemnation from Australian politicians, business leaders and the general public, while sparking protests from the Chinese community in Australia.