This is a true story from the Japanese Embassy in the US!!!
Shortly before traveling to the USA, Prime Minister Mori was given some basic English conversation training before he visits Washington and meets President Barack Obama …
The instructor told Prime Minister Mori, “When you shake hand with President Obama, please say ‘How are you?’ Then Mr. Obama should say, ‘I am fine, and you?’ Now, you should say ‘Me too.’ Afterwards, we translators will do the work for you.”
It looks quite simple, but the truth is …
When Mori met Obama, he mistakenly said ‘Who are you?’ (instead of ‘How are you?’).
Mr. Obama was a bit shocked but still managed to react with humor: ‘Well, I’m Michelle’s husband, ha-ha …’
Then Mori replied, ‘Me too, ha-ha ….’
Then there was a long silence in the meeting room.