Brasília — A warm and symbolic exchange unfolded at Palácio do Planalto on Wednesday (July 9), as Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered a joint statement following their bilateral meeting.

At the close of his remarks, President Lula surprised the audience with a heartfelt “Terima kasih” — Indonesian for “thank you.” The gesture, though simple, resonated deeply with those in attendance, reflecting his respect for the culture of his Southeast Asian counterpart.

In a charming moment of reciprocity, President Prabowo responded with a Portuguese “Obrigado,” returning the courtesy in Brazil’s native tongue.

Two words — one from Indonesia, one from Brazil — conveyed more than politeness. They became a quiet but powerful symbol of mutual respect, equality, and shared commitment to strengthening ties between two major democracies of the Global South.

This moment of linguistic exchange offered a sweet conclusion to a meeting filled with serious discussions on food security, defense, renewable energy, and technological cooperation. Yet it was the simplicity of “Terima kasih” and “Obrigado” that captured the personal connection between two leaders from vastly different cultures but united by a common vision.

In a world of diplomacy often bound by rigid protocol, these words served as a reminder: relationships between nations are built not only through policy but through gestures of sincerity.