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  Hug, Handshake, or ... Kiss?

  Posted Friday, April 03, 2009 1:08 PM | By Rachael Larimore

  Per our discussion about whether handshakes or hugs are more appropriate in workplace settings, I think it's safe to say that the Obamas' meeting with French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife, Carla Bruni, provides absolutely zero guidance.

  As we can see from the photo, Sarkozy gave Michelle Obama the Euro-style cheek kiss, while his wife gave Barack Obama a more formal handshake. But, as these photos from the British Sun show, Ms. Bruni greeted Mrs. Obama with smooches on the cheek, and the two presidents hugged.

  I'll try to keep all of this in mind the next time I'm meeting a world leader.

  Filed under: Sarkozy, Carla Bruni, hugging, handshakes, protocol, Obamas, etiquette

About Rachael Larimore

• Rachael Larimore is Slate's copy chief.

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