German Opposition Leader Reveals Craving for Sandwiches During Brazil Trip, Sparks Diplomatic Exchange
JOHANNESBURG – A comment by German opposition leader Friedrich Merz about missing traditional German breakfast foods while traveling in Angola ignited a diplomatic exchange with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, culminating in a public reconciliation at the G20 summit in South Africa. Merz’s remarks, initially perceived as dismissive of Brazilian cuisine, prompted a sharp response from Lula, who defended the culinary richness of his country and the state of Pará, specifically the city of Belém.
The initial friction stemmed from Merz’s reported longing for a German-style breakfast during his visit to Angola. According to reports, merz expressed a desire for German sandwiches, leading Lula to assert that Berlin doesn’t offer even ten percent of the quality found in Pará and Belém. The exchange underscored a broader debate about cultural sensitivity and diplomatic protocol, particularly as Germany seeks to strengthen economic ties with brazil.
The dispute was publicly resolved in Johannesburg, where Lula stated his willingness to sample German cuisine upon visiting Germany. “When I arrive in Germany, I eat sauerkraut, I eat pork knuckle, I eat sausages at the stalls,” Lula said, emphasizing his openness to experiencing local flavors.”Becuase I don’t travel to another country to eat feijoada,” he added, referencing brazil’s national bean stew.
The incident highlights the importance of cultural awareness in international relations and the potential for seemingly minor comments to escalate into diplomatic tensions. Both leaders appear to have moved past the disagreement, signaling a commitment to constructive dialog and collaboration.
