Students Share Cheerful Stories of Welcoming Brazilian President

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva greets students welcoming him at the courtyard of the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Thursday (10/23). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

Thousands of students gathered at the National Monument, Jakarta on Thursday (10/23) morning, to welcome Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and First Lady Rosângela Lula da Silva with cheers and waving flags.

As the convoy passed the students, President Lula and the First Lady opened the car window and waved their hands to the cheering students waving small flags of Indonesian and Brazilian flags, beaming with joy, excited to be a part of a historic moment.

President Lula also clapped in appreciation to the elementary school students who waved excitedly even though the procession has proceeded to the courtyard of the Merdeka Palace for official welcoming ceremony. He also took a moment to greet the students at the courtyard, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere amid the formal proceedings.

One of the students, Galih, from junior public high school SMP Negeri 5 Jakarta expressed enthusiasm to be able to participate. “It’s lively and fun here, I can make many friends, meeting new ones,” he said.

Fathan, also from the same school, added that he earned valuable lessons. As a football fan, he is particularly interested in the arrival of the Brazilian President to Indonesia.

“I admire their football culture and how well-developed and good it is,” he said with a proud face while holding a small Brazilian flag.

Meanwhile, Alvian Ramirez, also from SMP Negeri 5 Jakarta said that he was glad to be able to participate in welcoming a state guest for the first time. This occasion taught him important social skills.

“I feel happy and excited to see the performances. The experience of meeting and making new friends was valuable. The lesson I learned is to be more prepared to socialize,” he said.

Michelle and Syafiqa, two other students also from the same school, found the experience unforgettable. Syafiqa was especially fascinated by the horse cavalry during the welcoming procession.

“It was fun and added new experiences. It was also exciting here,” Michelle said.  (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/MMB)