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Story summary
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sparked controversy by saying journalists with him were relieved to return to Germany after COP30 in Brazil.
- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Merz should have explored local culture.
- A German government spokesperson said Merz's remark was taken out of context and noted fatigue from travel.
- They said Brazil remains Germany's key partner in Latin America and the incident did not harm their relationship.
