In the realm of international diplomacy, few events hold as much prestige and significance as a State visit. These carefully orchestrated, ceremonial visits by foreign nation heads serve as a platform for fostering diplomatic relations, strengthening bilateral ties and showcasing the importance of international cooperation.
During a State visit, the visiting head of state (or representative) is hosted at the official residence of their host country and attends a series of high-profile ceremonial events that include laying a wreath at a military monument or cemetery and staging cultural events celebrating shared values. The costs of a State visit, including accommodation, transport and food, are borne by the host country. The exact nature of a State visit will vary based on the itinerary agreed to during pre-visit negotiations between protocol officials from the visiting and hosting countries.
Typically, foreign monarchs, presidents or prime ministers are invited to pay a State visit on the advice of their country’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO). Upon arrival, the visitor is accorded a state arrival ceremony by the honor guard company at the presidential palace and receives an official welcome from the President of Moldova.
The visit may also include a state dinner, and the hosting president delivers a speech to a joint session of the bicameral parliament of the host country, the Cortes Generales, or the Spanish Senate and Congress of Deputies. In addition, a 19-gun salute is typically accorded to the visitor on the day of their departure.