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CANBERRA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's phone call to congratulate Donald Trump on his election as U.S. president was made possible by golf legend Greg Norman.
Turnbull called Trump on Wednesday to congratulate him on his election win over Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
But rather than acquiring Trump's phone number via traditional diplomatic means, such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or White House advisers, Turnbull turned to Norman, a former golf world No. 1 and close friend of Trump.
Joe Hockey, Australia's ambassador to the United States, reached out to Norman shortly after Trump was declared winner, and the Florida-based golfer was happy to provide him with Trump's personal mobile number.
Turnbull spent 15 minutes on the phone with Trump in a conversation which he described as "warm, constructive and practical."
In a statement issued on Thursday, Norman said it was a "pleasure" to connect the two leaders.
"I am fortunate enough to call Mr. Trump a friend, so I was happy to put them in touch to further the incredible long-standing relationship the two countries have experienced," he said.
Normann has been friends with Trump for a decade and regularly plays golf with the businessman-turned-politician. Enditem
