KUALA LUMPUR: A cheerful interlude unfolded at the 47th Asean Summit as Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrated his 80th birthday.
In a short video shared by the Brazilian leader – better known as Lula – members of the media could be seen singing a lively birthday song in a hall filled with laughter and applause as he arrived for the summit.
On this, he said he is happy to receive the unexpected congratulations from foreign journalists and added that he is deeply touched by the warm reception from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the government, the business community and the Malaysian people.
“I must say that Malaysia left me with the most positive impression,” he told the press on Monday (Oct 27).
“It is the warmth and friendliness of the Malaysian people. No matter where I go, I feel familiar with everyone. They always wear a smile, are kind and friendly,” he said.
“This reminds me of the Brazilian people,” added Lula.
The jovial leader then shared his trademark humour when speaking to the media.
“No one has given me a birthday present yet,” he joked, drawing laughter as he added that he is at the peak of his life.
Lula then said that he hopes to stay healthy and live to 120, adding that he would wear the shirt he received from the Malaysian government.
The Brazilian leader landed in Kuala Lumpur on October 24 for the summit and related meetings.
He is hosted as a Guest of the Chair under Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship this year.