A State visit is an invitation by the host head of state to a visiting dignitary. Unlike official visits, which are more functional trips that take place with little or no ceremony, State visits are highly-visible and involve a wide range of events.
A visit can be as short or as long as the visiting dignitary wishes, and it is typically a bilateral affair. During the visit, the dignitary is usually greeted by members of the honour guard and military bands. They are also able to meet with the head of government and the Prime Minister, as well as with the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. They may also attend a State dinner and deliver a formal address to the legislature of the host country, and lay a wreath at a national monument or war memorial.
The visit will culminate in a state ceremony, at which the visiting dignitary is presented with an honorary gift by the host head of state. The visit can be a high-profile diplomatic occasion, and is often highlighted by the staging of cultural events, such as concerts or sports competitions. The visiting head of state will also be able to deliver a speech to the parliament of the hosting country, in particular the bicameral Cortes Generales, which consists of the Senate and Congress of Deputies.
The last state visit was conducted by President Trump in March 2021, at which the Queen and her husband shook hands with him and listened as he delivered a speech to the House of Commons. The next inbound State visit is expected to be a trip by President Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Budenbender.