Joe Biden’s recent appearance at the UN stage took an unexpected turn when he seemingly wandered off without shaking hands with Brazil’s former president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, at the conclusion of their joint speech on improving workers’ rights. Lula appeared visibly irritated by this gesture. The diplomatic meeting had its share of awkward moments from the very beginning. Biden accidentally shuffled into a seven-foot Brazilian flag as he approached the podium, leaving it teetering precariously.
During his speech, President Biden discussed his economic vision for rebuilding the economy, emphasizing a bottom-up approach. Meanwhile, Lula watched from his right flank, and Biden struggled with his headset to hear the translated version during Lula’s speech.
The climax of the awkwardness occurred when Biden left Lula hanging at the end of their presentation, offering an awkward salute to the audience before shuffling off stage. Lula looked annoyed and made a swiping gesture with his arm as they departed from opposite sides of the stage.
Despite these moments of discomfort, both leaders emphasized their commitment to improving workers’ rights in their respective nations and strengthening ties between Brazil and the United States. They also highlighted the ongoing strike by United Auto Workers members against major automakers and expressed their dedication to this cause. Biden suggested that the U.S.-Brazil Partnership for Workers’ Rights could expand beyond a bilateral initiative.
Lula emphasized the importance of workers’ rights and reducing poverty and inequality. While their meeting had a few hiccups, both leaders seemed to be striving for a meaningful partnership.
In other news, President Biden has faced criticism for a series of verbal gaffes and mishaps, raising concerns about his health and cognitive abilities. These incidents include calling a reporter a derogatory term, confusing names and countries, and stumbling while climbing the stairs of Air Force One.
Despite these incidents, Biden’s administration has focused on various policy goals, such as COVID-19 vaccination efforts and initiatives to improve workers’ rights. However, these verbal slip-ups have contributed to ongoing discussions about the president’s health and fitness for office.
