As leaders of countries grapple with a host of economic, political and security challenges, they must invest substantial portions of their time in conducting diplomatic relations. The United States President, for example, spends almost one-third of his term on international travel and meetings with other leaders.
These carefully orchestrated visits—known as State visit—provide a platform for diplomatic exchange and showcase the importance of international cooperation. While the specifics vary based on each visitor’s itinerary, protocol officials negotiate the details of a visit prior to its commencement. This article provides an overview of the various elements that make up a State visit.
A State visit begins with a flight line ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, where the visiting head of state receives a salute from a battery of military units—including the National Guard and a unit from the guest country’s armed forces. Afterward, the leader is welcomed to the White House by the presidential delegation. After a welcoming ceremony in the Blue Room, the president makes a speech and proposes a toast to the guest head of state. Gifts are also exchanged.
As with the previous US president, Trump will enjoy a state dinner hosted by the Queen and her husband. The visit will also take place during a parliamentary recess, helping him avoid an uncomfortable encounter with the British parliament’s many Trump critics. The visit will also be the first official state visit by a Kenyan leader since Ghana’s John Kufour in 2008. Symbolic gestures, such as visiting military monuments and laying wreaths at places of historical significance, are also commonplace.