China-Portugal Relations

Hu hugs Portuguese fallen guard during visit

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-11-08 15:44

LISBON - Chinese President Hu Jintao showed his concern for an ordinary guard during his visit to Portugal from Nov 6 to 7, an episode which not only impressed everyone present but also drew heavy media coverage.

A member of the Portuguese National Republican Guard fell off a terrified horse when Hu was reviewing the cavalry regiment outside the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon's suburb Belem on Saturday.

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The incident occurred after Hu laid a wreath at the tomb of famous Portuguese poet Kameng Si inside the monastery to show respect for the Portuguese people.

Instead of heading towards his car after the ceremony, Hu walked directly to the fallen cavalryman.

"Are you all right?" Hu asked the man and hugged him closely.

"Thank you very much, Mr. President. I am all right and will be okay after a while," the man replied, deeply moved by Hu's gesture.

"I thank you, hope you have not been injured," Hu said.

The Chinese president shook hands with the cavalryman a second time before heading for the Presidential Palace. The cavalryman put on his helmet with the help of his companion and mounted his horse again to continue escorting the president.

This incident involving the Chinese president and a Portuguese cavalryman shows the deep friendship between the Chinese leader and the Portuguese people, local press said.