I guess you can shrug almost anything off as insignificant and say "why bother." But unfortunately, there are other cultures where these things matter and matter to a very high degree. Other cultures view these kinds of things and at best formulate opinions and at worst, use it as propaganda. Maybe it's not a big deal... but why must he do what no other President of the United States does? This is the second time. I don't know why there are those in our own country who seem embarrassed or even ashamed at being a powerful country. I'd like us to stay that way. And for anyone who's going to jump in say how evil we are, my response is, I've never heard of another country fighting with for airspace when dropping off humanitarian aid ... even to our sworn enemies.
I think the bowing thing means something. Maybe not a big deal in the grand scheme, but it does say something... maybe his arrogrance and his need to simply do things that are not well received. Some will argue that it shows the opposite, but I get the sense he almost enjoys doing these sorts of things, like apologizing for the US in foreign countries,etc. I think that he may feel that others will look upon him as "above" it all because he's so contrite. To me,there's no greater strength than just being who you are and quietly, or not so quietly, making sure other know as well.
