You are correct without even realizing it.
That gross event (which was meant to elevate Jorge to the Christ figure, being gifted by the magi with three gifts) was sycophantic, servile, and fawning - and unbefitting.
Was it Benedict's idea, or Jorge's? It certainly wasn't a private gift giving, was it? It was international headlines. The whole thing reeked of a PR stunt, orchestrated to feed the ego and reputation of Francis, which it was.
You’re really stretching it. The more probable explanation is Benedict was totally on board.