Overview
- The two leaders held a roughly 40‑minute conversation in Johannesburg that Merz’s entourage called a “verbal hug.”
- Merz posted on X that he will explore Belém’s dance, local cuisine and rainforest on his next visit and said he looks forward to strengthening ties.
- Despite the conciliatory tone, Merz did not issue a formal apology, drawing continued criticism from some Brazilian voices.
- Lula had earlier urged Merz to experience Belém’s bars, food and dance, saying the state of Pará and its capital surpass Berlin in quality.
- The dispute stemmed from Merz’s post‑trip comment that none of the journalists with him wanted to stay in Belém after attending COP30‑related opening events.