Merz’s inconspicuous lack of elegance

German Prime Minister compares Germany to Brazil and says he was happy to leave Belém

In an example of diplomatic inelegance, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz used a speech at the German Trade Congress on November 13 to draw a derogatory comparison between Brazil and Germany, sounding more like a disgruntled tourist than a head of state.

Merz spared no subtleties when declaring that his country is one of the “most beautiful in the world” and then reporting with satisfaction that all the German journalists who accompanied him at COP30 in Belém were “happy” to leave the city behind. The statement, which turns a sovereign nation into a mere negative counterpoint, was made as he asked the public to value German prosperity, completing a picture of arrogant provincialism.

The speech, transcribed and made available by the German government itself, reveals the chancellor’s tone: “Ladies and gentlemen, we live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. I asked some journalists who were with me in Brazil last week: ‘Which of you would like to stay here?’ Nobody raised their hand. Everyone was happy that we returned to Germany… especially from where we were.” The comment, which reduces Belém to a mere “that place”, highlights a lack of tact that goes far beyond a mere gaffe.

Merz frustrates Planalto by not announcing value for climate fund

Merz’s inelegance, however, was not limited to words. She was preceded by an equally frustrating stance on her visit to Brazil. During the COP30 Leaders’ Summit, where he participated in a bilateral meeting with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the chancellor limited himself to vague promises.

Despite praising the Brazilian initiative and promising that Germany would contribute a “significant amount” to the Forests forever Fund, Merz left Planalto in a vacuum by not confirming any amount. The absence of a concrete announcement was interpreted as a maneuver to avoid a real commitment to the fund, showing that, in addition to the uncourteous words, the practical stance also left something to be desired.

The contrast is revealing: in the same week that, on Brazilian soil, he defended that “climate protection and economic development must go hand in hand”, Merz used the stage in his country to make a cheap joke at the expense of the host nation. A combination of arrogance and inefficiency that did not go unnoticed.

Also check out BBC News and DW on 11/17/2025