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Lula and Merz mend ties after cultural clash at G20 summit

A G20 handshake erased weeks of friction—now Brazil and Germany eye stronger trade. Could food diplomacy have saved them sooner?

Here there is a food item.
Here there is a food item.

Lula to Merz: In Germany, 'I eat sauerkraut' - Lula and Merz mend ties after cultural clash at G20 summit

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have moved past recent tensions. The two leaders met at the G20 summit in Johannesburg, where Lula offered advice on Brazilian culture and food. Their next meeting is set for April in Hanover, where Lula will attend a major trade fair.

The disagreement began after Merz made controversial remarks about Belém, a city in northern Brazil. Brazilians reacted with anger, prompting Lula to suggest Merz should have explored local cuisine and traditions instead.

The reconciliation between Lula and Merz follows public criticism and cultural misunderstandings. Their upcoming meeting in Hanover will focus on economic ties, with Lula attending a key industrial event. Both leaders have now shifted attention to future cooperation rather than past disputes.

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