6 Instances Where Food Diplomacy Failed

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Japan Coins New Slang Inspired by George Bush

The Japanese wasted no time crafting a fresh slang term, “bushusuru,” which translates to “doing the Bush thing” — a humorous nod to the incident of former U.S. President George W. Bush throwing up at an official event.

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François Hollande Draws a Red Line Over Wine

In 2016, a planned lunch between former French President François Hollande and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in Paris was scrapped due to a cultural clash over wine. Rouhani had requested a halal menu with no alcohol in line with Islamic customs, given Iran’s strict alcohol ban. However, for the French, wine is deeply ingrained in their national identity and a staple of their dining tradition.

The Elysée Palace counteroffered with an alcohol-free breakfast, but Iranian officials dismissed the idea, deeming it “too cheap.” This impasse ultimately led to the cancellation of the meeting, highlighting the challenges of reconciling cultural and religious differences in diplomacy.

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Lula’s Appetite Left Unfulfilled in Paris and Rome

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva recently expressed his dissatisfaction with the “tiny and restricted” portions served during state meals in Paris and Rome. Speaking to the Brazilian outlet O Globo, Lula shared his disappointment with the elegant yet modestly sized servings of official dinners in two world-renowned culinary capitals.

“I don’t enjoy those meals because everything is so small,” he remarked. “There isn’t a big tray where you can take whatever you want. It’s just a little bit of food.” Joking about his preferences, he added, “I might be gluttonous, but I like quantity. I long for dishes like oxtail stew or a hearty chicken dish.”

Despite representing a global leader, Lula’s candid comments underline his down-to-earth culinary tastes — and his appetite for something more substantial.

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