( dpa ) - Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner ignored diplomatic protocol to promote Bolivian silver on Friday, during a meeting with Bolivian President Evo Morales in Buenos Aires.
Towards the end of her speech, Fernandez, who is known for always being conscious of her appearance and renowned as a fan of fashion and jewellery, surprised her audience by praising Bolivia for its silver and gems. Her comments garnered smiles and applause.
"I want to thank Evo and all his delegation for their presence," she said. "And I want to tell you something."
Fernandez smiled, and said her role as the first elected female president in the country's history gets her into some trouble.
"If I were a male president, this would not happen," she noted.
She showed the earrings and the necklace she was wearing.
"This is authentic Bolivian silver. This stone is a precious stone called 'bolivianita' which is only found there. It is a rare mix of amethyst and citrine which only happens in Bolivia," Fernandez said.
"Women of the world, now you know where to find something so beautiful, made, moreover, by Bolivian silversmiths and gem cutters. Latin American manpower, for Latin America and the world. Thank you, Evo, I will always have them with me. It is a piece of Bolivia," she said amid applause.