A State visit is a formal invitation from the Head of State (or their representative) of one country to the Head of State of another, at the latter’s expense. It is the highest expression of friendly bilateral relations between countries and is accompanied by extensive ceremonial activities.
The visit usually lasts a few days and includes meetings with the host government ministers, leaders of political parties and business executives. During the first day of their State visit, foreign heads of state usually meet with the King and Queen of the host country. This is often followed by a tour of the military base or an inspection of the troops. After this the visit typically concludes with a state banquet.
During a State visit, the guest will also pay tribute to the victims of the Armenian genocide at the Tsitsernakaberd complex. The ceremony involves the guest, accompanied by the Prime Minister, rekindling the eternal flame and laying a wreath.
The UK government will seek to leverage the pomp and pageantry of the State visit as it attempts to bend Trump’s ear on key policy issues such as trade and Ukraine. However, the risk is that the King’s invitation will be seen as too transactional – that is, as a way of trading diplomatic favours rather than trying to shape the Trump presidency. This would be a big strategic mistake and could even damage the special relationship.
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