Congo diplomat, Oscar Matondo snubs Princess Letizia in error

THE Business Representative of the Democratic Republic of Congo has said he failed to shake the hand of Princess Letizia, due to a “communication error”.

At a reception of the Diplomatic Corps at Spain’s Royal Palace, Oscar Matondo, who has held the position since March 2011, shook hands with the King, Queen and Prince Felipe, but when it came to Princess Letizia, although he initially put his hand out, he withdrew it when she spoke to him.

Before attending the reception, which was his first, Matondo asked colleagues about the protocol but misunderstood when she spoke to him in Spanish, allegedly believing that she was telling him not to shake hands.

However, when he asked another guest from Cameroon about this, he realized his mistake.

Matondo claimed to be “frustrated and surprised” by the repercussions this had in the Spanish press, and clarified that relationships between Spain and Congo are excellent, as well as the fact that women are treated with respect in Congo.

He informed the embassy as soon as he returned to avoid problems, and they also issued a statement to say it had been a misunderstanding.

The Royal Household said they don’t understand what happened and believe it was a mistake caused by nerves.