Macron's inappropriate move with Turkish first lady

French President Emmanuel Macron was caught in an embarrassing situation when he greeted Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his wife, Emine Erdoğan, upon their arrival in Turkey for a highly anticipated NATO meeting.

The Erdoğans welcomed the Macrons to Turkey on Tuesday as they prepared to kick off a two-day summit at a turning point in the organization’s history. The United States, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, is stepping back from its traditional security role in Europe.

As the two dignitaries and their wives shook hands, Macron reached down to kiss Emine Erdoğan’s hands. However, a video catches her pulling her hand back, signaling the French president to stop.

Noticing the awkward encounter, President Erdoğan intervened and pulled his wife’s hand back.

According to BRICS, a major intergovernmental organization and diplomatic forum, “in Istanbul, centuries of Ottoman etiquette, Islamic modesty, and the dignity of a host don’t bend for theatrical diplomacy. Some greetings earn respect; others earn an awkward retreat. When protocol speaks louder than charm, history quietly reminds every guest: honor is welcomed — presumption is not.”

A NATO summit is a highly symbolic moment when the 32 member countries of the world’s biggest military alliance underline their unshakeable commitment to one another’s security. This year, however, the trans-Atlantic bond has rarely seemed more fragile.

Still, the meeting is being organized around the theme of a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO. The Trump administration has called for a reboot to “NATO 3.0,” and it’s hoped that what this actually means will become clearer over the next two days.

A presidential compound for a venue

Erdoğan is hosting the summit at his vast Bestepe Presidential Compound on the western edge of the Turkish capital, Ankara. A new airport, converted from an old military airfield, has been unveiled especially to host NATO leaders.

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