Watch: Abu Dhabi Crown Prince's response to Donald Trump is a masterclass in diplomacy

In the world of diplomacy, a single phrase can summarise an entire nation's spirit. During the briefest handshakes or fleeting exchanges in the corridors of power, the most vital messages are often conveyed — in those moments, timing is everything.

During the US President Donald Trump's recent visit to the UAE, a similar exchange unfolded between him and Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

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The interaction took place on the sidelines of a press event, where Trump made a characteristically grand statement about economic figures (in investments). “Now, we are maybe looking at maybe $13 trillion,” he said. “These are numbers that nobody has ever... even you guys (looking at the Crown Prince) have never heard of in business, these are numbers never heard of before.”

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Sheikh Khaled responded with a subtle yet dignified interjection: "We are not as big as the United States." His tone, neither submissive nor dismissive, struck the perfect balance, acknowledging America's power while gently bringing the conversation into perspective.

Trump, always quick with a quip, replied with a chuckle, "You better not be," drawing laughter from the room.

With calm confidence and wit, the Crown Prince delivered his next remark, which struck a chord: "But we punch above our weight."

The standout in that interaction is not what he said but how he delivered it. There was no boast, challenge, or tension — only the art of tactful parry.

Watch the video below:

It was a masterclass in diplomacy, a display of charm and wit, skillfully delivered in a moment that could have easily turned awkward.

It was a remark rooted in quiet confidence, earned through discipline, and principle. Not to forget, the Crown Prince is also a trained jiu-jitsu practitioner and champion, a sport that values control, awareness, and the ability to turn leverage into advantage, qualities he exhibited in this very moment.

In a world where power is often shown through bold statements and headlines, Sheikh Khaled's composed response served as a reminder that influence can also lie in subtleties.

ajanta@khaleejtimes.com