What is the ruling on addressing non-Muslim workers with the phrase "O friend"?

The questioner:
May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh. This questioner says: We often hear people addressing non-Muslim workers and saying this phrase, "O friend." It has become widespread, and people have become lax about it, to the point that many have become careless with it. The question is: Is it permissible for us to address them with this phrase, or does it fall under showing loyalty to them?

The Shaykh:
That is not permissible. It is not permissible to address a disbeliever by saying "O friend" or "O beloved." You do not say such things. However, if the worker is a Muslim, you may say "O friend" to him, and there is no objection. Or "O beloved," if he is a Muslim, a non-relative Muslim, there is nothing wrong with it. But for a disbeliever, you do not say "O friend" or "O beloved." Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah improve your condition.

The Shaykh:
You address him by his name, "O So-and-so," or "O worker," yes.