bise

A French delegation celebrated the announcement, delivered on Wednesday in Rabat, Morocco, in classic French style — by waving baguettes and trading “la bise,” the traditional two kisses, one for each cheek.

And Elisa Mayor, a student, said that in her generation, “la bise” was already not that popular, even before COVID-19.

The bise has also become a political tool, symbolizing the closeness of an elected official with his fellow citizens.

The French cheek kiss — “la bise” — is more difficult to spot on the red carpet than in typical years.

Even before the pandemic, “la bise” was a source of division.