First Lady Michelle Obama and Queen Elizabeth embraced for a short while during a reception function for G20 Summit in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday night. Michelle Obama's move that she had patted Queen’s back was believed to have broken royal protocol! “In 57 years, the Queen has never been seen to make that kind of gesture and it is certainly against all protocol to touch her.” Dailymail exclaimed. However, Queen Elizabeth, apparently, did not mind it. The following excerpts described how Michelle and Queen’s “extraordinary” hug happened:
According to eyewitnesses, the exchange occurred as the Queen was waiting in the Throne Room following the official group picture with the national leaders here for the G20 Summit.
One said: 'There was a bit of a bottleneck as all of the leaders filed out so the Queen started chatting to Michelle Obama. She appeared to look up at her and make a comment about how tall she was.
'As she did, she put her arm around Mrs Obama and rested her gloved hand on the small of her back.'
Almost simultaneously, Mrs Obama put her arm around the Queen's shoulders rather more firmly.
'The pair then looked at their feet and appeared to be discussing their shoes.
'The Queen then dropped her arm and, a few seconds later, Michelle did the same. The entire exchange lasted around eight to ten seconds but was absolutely extraordinary.'