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167-432: A state visit is a formal visit by the head of a sovereign country (or representative of the head of a sovereign country) to another sovereign country, at the invitation of the head of state (or representative) of that foreign country, with the latter also acting as the official host for the duration of the state visit. Speaking for the host, it is generally called a state reception . State visits are considered to be
334-434: A head of government or a cabinet minister or in other cases (possibly as a message, for instance, to distance themselves without rendering offence) just a military officer or civil servant. For non-executive heads of state there is often a degree of censorship by the politically responsible government (such as the head of government ). This means that the government discreetly approves agenda and speeches, especially where
501-495: A working visit , a guest-of-government visit , or a private visit . In parliamentary democracies , while heads of state (or their representative) may formally issue and accept invitations, they do so on the advice of their heads of government , who usually decide on when the invitation is to be issued or accepted in advance. Queen Elizabeth II was the most travelled head of state in world history, having made 261 official overseas visits and 96 state visits to 116 countries by
668-710: A big role in the receptions of international personalities. Currently, the many ambassadors accredited to Belgium are received by the king in the Hall of Mirrors. The palace can also serve more specific functions: for instance, during the First World War and on the initiative of Queen Elisabeth , it became a military hospital of the Red Cross . As often mentioned, it has a façade 50% longer than that of Buckingham Palace in London , but its floor area of 33,027 m (355,500 sq ft)
835-556: A bill to the Supreme Court to test its constitutionality, which are used under the president's discretion. The most extreme non-executive republican head of state is the President of Israel , which holds no reserve powers whatsoever. The least ceremonial powers held by the president are to provide a mandate to attempt to form a government, to approve the dissolution of the Knesset made by
1002-509: A ceremonial figurehead with no independent discretionary powers related to the governance of Japan. Since the passage in Sweden of the 1974 Instrument of Government , the Swedish monarch no longer has many of the standard parliamentary system head of state functions that had previously belonged to him or her, as was the case in the preceding 1809 Instrument of Government . Today, the speaker of
1169-415: A dependent territory, the same role is fulfilled by the holder of an office corresponding to that of a head of state. For example, in each Canadian province the role is fulfilled by the lieutenant governor , whereas in most British Overseas Territories the powers and duties are performed by the governor . The same applies to Australian states , Indian states , etc. Hong Kong 's constitutional document,
1336-635: A dining room, as at the time of the wedding of Princess Louise with Prince Philipp of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha , and had for this purpose a pantry and a freight elevator embedded behind doors. Despite its name, the Throne Room does not house any throne because the King of the Belgians simply does not have one (just like a crown). This room is divided into three spaces separated by arched arcades supported by Corinthian pillars. The neo-Louis XVI style decor corresponds to
1503-509: A foreign leader. All military honours are organized by Section D of the Ministry of Defence . State banquets are also held for foreign dignitaries at the Rashtrapati Bhavan which are hosted by the president of India . Over 100 guests are invited to attend state banquets, including the vice-president of India , the prime minister of India , as well as government officials and leaders of
1670-660: A fortified castle forming a part of the city's fortifications . It was the home of the Dukes of Brabant , who also resided in the nearby city of Leuven and in Tervuren Castle . In the following centuries, it was rebuilt, extended, and improved, in line with the increased prestige of the Dukes of Brabant and their successors: the Dukes of Burgundy , Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor , Albert VII, Archduke of Austria and Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia of Spain, as well as successive Governors of
1837-462: A gallery. The newly created "Royal Palace" received a new neoclassical façade designed by the architect Tilman-François Suys with a peristyle in the middle, and a balcony with a wrought iron parapet surrounding the entire first floor. The street running alongside the new Royal Palace was widened and thus the Place des Palais/Paleizenplein ("Palaces' Square") was created. The new square's name uses
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#17331062844432004-582: A harp and a music stand probably belonging to Queen Louise . The Louis XVI Room, like the Blue Room or the Pillar Room and the Marshals' Room, dates back to the time of William I. It was used at the time as an anteroom and was later converted into a living room. Alongside the portraits of family members of Leopold I are some canvases from his personal collection. The depiction of his deceased first wife, Allegory of
2171-429: A host role during a state visit , and the programme may feature playing of the national anthems by a military band , inspection of military troops , official exchange of gifts, and attending a state dinner at the official residence of the host. At home, heads of state are expected to render lustre to various occasions by their presence, such as by attending artistic or sports performances or competitions (often in
2338-579: A layer of stucco . It was not until 2004 that, at the request of Queen Paola , the artist Jan Fabre installed there a work called Heaven of Delight made up of more than a million beetle elytra in order to reflect the light with a metallic green tint. Despite the artist's conviction for sexual offences , the palace decided to keep his creation. The room is mainly used today for the reception of letters of credence from ambassadors posted in Brussels. The Grand Gallery, 41 m (135 ft) long, connects
2505-454: A long square called the Place des Palais/Paleizenplein . This area is served by Brussels-Central railway station , as well as by the metro stations Parc/Park (on lines 1 and 5 ) and Trône/Troon (on lines 2 and 6 ). The first building on the Coudenberg hill was constructed between the second half of the 11th and first half of the 12th century. At that time, it probably looked like
2672-498: A majority support in the legislature (or, at least, not a majority opposition – a subtle but important difference). It also gives the legislature the right to vote down the head of government and their cabinet, forcing it either to resign or seek a parliamentary dissolution. The executive branch is thus said to be responsible (or answerable) to the legislature, with the head of government and cabinet in turn accepting constitutional responsibility for offering constitutional advice to
2839-733: A matter of convention, the presidency has been held simultaneously by the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party , the top leader in the one party system . The presidency is officially regarded as an institution of the state rather than an administrative post; theoretically, the President serves at the pleasure of the National People's Congress , the legislature, and is not legally vested to take executive action on its own prerogative. While clear categories do exist, it
3006-583: A mention or signature; and public places, streets, monuments and institutions such as schools are named for current or previous heads of state. In monarchies (e.g., Belgium) there can even be a practice to attribute the adjective "royal" on demand based on existence for a given number of years. However, such political techniques can also be used by leaders without the formal rank of head of state, even party - and other revolutionary leaders without formal state mandate. Heads of state often greet important foreign visitors, particularly visiting heads of state. They assume
3173-755: A notable feature of constitutions in the Americas , including those of Argentina , Brazil , Colombia , El Salvador , Mexico and Venezuela ; this is generally attributed to the strong influence of the United States in the region, and as the United States Constitution served as an inspiration and model for the Latin American wars of independence of the early 19th century. Most presidents in such countries are selected by democratic means (popular direct or indirect election); however, like all other systems,
3340-416: A parliamentary system (such as India, Germany, Austria, Italy and Israel), the head of state is usually titled president and the principal functions of such presidents are mainly ceremonial and symbolic, as opposed to the presidents in a presidential or semi-presidential system. In reality, numerous variants exist to the position of a head of state within a parliamentary system. The older the constitution,
3507-636: A platoon of National Guards presenting arms at the arrival of the state guest at the entrance of the National Palace. After the state guest arrives with the president of Mexico (and his or her first partner, if present) in the palace' south courtyard the NG's Presidential Guards honor guard company presents arms while the Representative Music Band of the Mexican Armed Forces plays the anthems of
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#17331062844433674-439: A referendum to allow him to resume his monarchical powers and duties, but because of the ongoing controversy he ultimately abdicated.) The Belgian constitutional crisis in 1990, when the head of state refused to sign into law a bill permitting abortion, was resolved by the cabinet assuming the power to promulgate the law while he was treated as "unable to reign" for twenty-four hours. These officials are excluded completely from
3841-507: A theatrical honour box, on a platform, on the front row, at the honours table), expositions, national day celebrations , dedication events, military parades and war remembrances, prominent funerals, visiting different parts of the country and people from different walks of life, and at times performing symbolic acts such as cutting a ribbon , groundbreaking , ship christening , laying the first stone. Some parts of national life receive their regular attention, often on an annual basis, or even in
4008-627: A visit to the National War Memorial . State and official visits by Canada are performed by the Canadian monarch or a representative—the governor general, a lieutenant governor , or another member of the royal family . The first state visit by Canada was to the United States in 1937, when the US accorded the governor general the equivalent status given to a visiting head of state. Tours of Canada by
4175-529: Is also held at Victory Square . A bilateral meeting, press conference, and state dinner are all held at the Ala Archa State Residence . The Kyrgyz official welcoming group includes the chairman of the Supreme Council, the prime minister, and the minister of foreign affairs. The official morning breakfast reception takes place from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Arrival ceremonies are also held at
4342-565: Is also there that the reception of the constituted bodies takes place during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the presentation of the King Baudouin International Development Prize and that of the triennial prize for Flemish literature. Originally an anteroom, what is now the Pillar Room later became a reception area for the kingdom's great noble families . Known then as the Blue Room (the colour referring to
4509-478: Is characterised by many revival styles, of which Leopold II was a supporter. The building is made up of three parts: a central wing, marked by a projection to the north and south; an east wing; and a west wing, each surrounding a large rectangular courtyard accessible by road from the north and south. The complex is surrounded by formal gardens, French style at the front, English style at the rear, and entirely enclosed by balustraded walls. The main façade, which
4676-478: Is completely symmetrical, is crowned in the middle with a large pediment. Only the colonnade and balcony of the old palace have been preserved. The street was shifted to make room for the front garden, consisting of three dug-in parterres . Extending the palace symmetrically towards the east and west along the street side are curved galleries ending in two pavilions on the corners, attached to the Hôtel de la Liste Civile to
4843-545: Is defined in the constitution as "the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people" (article 1), and is generally recognised throughout the world as the Japanese head of state. Although the emperor formally appoints the prime minister to office, article 6 of the constitution requires him to appoint the candidate "as designated by the Diet", without any right to decline appointment. He is
5010-602: Is held by the premier. If a president, governor-general or king visits, the welcoming ceremony is held by the president. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Honor Guard then marches off the square to the tune of the March of the Chinese People's Liberation Army . The ceremony ends with the marching band of the PLA performing an exhibition of military drill . During state visits, national awards are presented to visiting dignitaries, including
5177-585: Is less than half of Buckingham Palace's floor area at 77,000 m (830,000 sq ft). In the Royal Palace, an important part of the Royal Collection is found. This consists of mainly state portraits and important furniture of Napoleon , Leopold I , Louis Philippe I and Leopold II . Silverware , porcelain and fine crystal is kept in the cellars used during state banquets and formal occasions at court. Queen Paola added modern art in some of
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5344-547: Is sometimes difficult to choose which category some individual heads of state belong to. In reality, the category to which each head of state belongs is assessed not by theory but by practice. Constitutional change in Liechtenstein in 2003 gave its head of state, the Reigning Prince , constitutional powers that included a veto over legislation and power to dismiss the head of government and cabinet. It could be argued that
5511-652: Is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians in the centre of the nation's capital, Brussels . However, it is not used as a royal residence, as the king and his family live in the Royal Palace of Laeken in northern Brussels. The website of the Belgian Monarchy describes the function of the Royal Palace as follows: The Royal Palace is where His Majesty the King exercises his prerogatives as Head of State, grants audiences and deals with affairs of state. Apart from
5678-456: The Aula Magna were somewhat spared. The ruins only disappeared when the district was redeveloped after 1775. At that time the urban axes of the present-day Brussels Park were laid out. The Place Royale/Koningsplein was built on top of the ruined palace. Excavations of the site by different archaeological organisations have unearthed various remains of different parts of the palace as well as
5845-598: The Armenian genocide at the Tsitsernakaberd complex. During a visit to the complex, most leaders receive a tour of the museum, plant trees near the memorial, and lay wreaths at the eternal flame. A state visit in Belgium starts with an inspection of the troops in front of the Royal Palace of Brussels , whereafter the king and queen have a private audience with the visiting head of state and his or her spouse. The first day of
6012-609: The Austrian army ); his wife Queen Louise; as well as a bust of the future Leopold II by the sculptor Guillaume Geefs . Initially a billiard room, the Goya Room has since 1905 housed three tapestries woven at the Royal Tapestry Factory of Santa Bárbara from designs by Francisco de Goya : The Dance , The Little Blind Man and The Water Carrier . These tapestries were offered by Queen Isabella II of Spain to Leopold I. Like
6179-452: The Basic Law , for example, specifies the chief executive as the head of the special administrative region, in addition to their role as the head of government. These non-sovereign-state heads, nevertheless, have limited or no role in diplomatic affairs, depending on the status and the norms and practices of the territories concerned. In parliamentary systems the head of state may be merely
6346-516: The Belgian Provinces and their main activities. Only the Province of Brabant (unitary at the time the frieze was created) is not represented because the palace was already built on Brabant territory. This room has seen many historical events take place, such as the abdication of Leopold III in 1951, that of Albert II in 2013 or the civil marriage of King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola in 1960. It
6513-468: The Belgian Revolution in 1830–31, the Royal Palace was offered to Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha when he ascended the throne as King Leopold I , the first King of the Belgians . Just like his predecessor, William II, he used the palace mainly for official receptions and other representational purposes and lived in the Royal Palace of Laeken . During his reign (until 1865), little was changed to
6680-666: The Berlin Victory Column , the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe , and the Soviet War Memorial (Tiergarten) . During state visits, foreign dignitaries typically visit German federal states outside the capital. It this regard, a full honors ceremony is also held with the minister-president being the presiding officer. In break with the traditional Berlin military protocol, chairs have since July 2019 been set up outside
6847-707: The Corazzieri and a selected ceremonial unit such as the Honour Company "Goito" from the 1° Regiment "Granatieri di Sardegna") and a supporting military band that performs 3 Ruffles and flourishes known as "Onori" ("Honors") prior to playing the national anthem of the dignitary's home country and Il Canto degli Italiani . In recent years, the Bersaglieri , the Carabinieri , and the Italian Navy have provided honor guards for
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7014-473: The Councils of Ministers took place, then often chaired by the king. Leopold III being reluctant to play the game of the parliamentary regime of the time, he only rarely convened these meetings, which then took place elsewhere. Although it is no longer the private residence of the sovereigns, the palace has continued to house members of the royal family and to see important events take place for them. Only one king
7181-599: The First World War , it resumed in 1920. In 1930, the interior of the east wing was rebuilt. In 1934–1936, the study plan for the ground floor was drawn up by Henri van de Velde . The west wing was inhabited by Prince Charles, Count of Flanders , who converted the greenhouse into the Flemish Hall in 1938. Since then, apart from maintenance and restoration work, there has not been any more major transformations. The royal apartments were still occupied until 1935, but after Queen Astrid 's death, King Leopold III chose to live in
7348-471: The Habsburg Netherlands to Charles of Habsburg . It was also in this same room that, in 1555, Charles V abdicated in favour of his son, King Philip II of Spain . This impressive complex suffered several fires over the centuries. In 1679, a fire destroyed part of the roof. A large fire that broke out on 3 February 1731 almost completely destroyed the building. Only the court chapel and the walls of
7515-832: The Japan Self-Defense Forces . State visits are planned in accordance with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs one month in advance. Arrival ceremonies for state visits to Kyrgyzstan typically take place at Manas International Airport with the participation of the Honour Guard Battalion of the 701st Military Unit of the National Guard and the Band of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Kyrgyzstan . A wreath-laying ceremony
7682-518: The National Assembly ( legislature ) and is thus similar, in principle, to a head of government in a parliamentary system but is also, in addition, recognised as the head of state. The offices of president of Nauru and president of Botswana are similar in this respect to the South African presidency. Panama , during the military dictatorships of Omar Torrijos and Manuel Noriega ,
7849-523: The Netherlands revolve around and are centered on the capital of Amsterdam . A characteristic of a state visit is that it is usually carried out by a foreign head of state , rather than a head of government . Upon arrival to the country, the dignitary will be given a tour through the capital, which includes a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Monument . Foreign dignitaries are usually received by
8016-733: The Order of Friendship . Since 1954, the State Protection Unit has provided motorcades for visiting dignitaries traveling from the airport to their meeting place. A 30-minute ceremony at the Plaza of the National Performing Arts Center in Taipei takes place to honor visiting dignitaries to the Republic of China (Taiwan) . After the anthems are played, the president escorts the visitor past
8183-526: The President of Finland , inspects the guard of honor to the rhythm of the Björneborgarnas marsch . After the inspection of the honor guard and the performance of the national anthems, the heads of state greet the public from the balcony of the Presidential Palace, from where they move to the yellow salon to drink welcome toasts, take official photos and exchange gifts and badges of honor. Usually,
8350-519: The President's Bodyguard (PBG) , and the Tri-Services Guard of Honour . Heads of state are also given a 21-gun salute, with a 19-gun salute being to heads of government . The massed bands and the commander of the guard of honour is chosen by a rotation between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. In 2015, Wing Commander Pooja Thakur became the first female officer to lead the guard of honour for
8517-408: The Presidential Palace , involving the Honor Guard Company and the Presidential Band . During the inspection, the foreign guest will greet the personnel of the company in the Romanian language (the dignitary will say buna ziua or "good morning" to which the soldiers will respond by saying salutari or "greetings"). Foreign guests may also visit the Gagauz capital of Comrat . State visits in
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#17331062844438684-527: The Reichstag , which was expected, in normal circumstances, to be answerable to the Reichstag. Initially, the president was merely a symbolic figure with the Reichstag dominant; however, persistent political instability, in which governments often lasted only a few months, led to a change in the power structure of the republic, with the president's emergency powers called increasingly into use to prop up governments challenged by critical or even hostile Reichstag votes. By 1932, power had shifted to such an extent that
8851-450: The Senate of France , and will hold meetings with members of parliament. Sometime during the state visit, the visiting dignitary will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe . State visits in Georgia are held outside the Presidential Palace of Georgia in Tbilisi . Ceremonial honours are provided by the Honour Guard and the Band of the National Guard of Georgia . The band plays Georgian Army songs during
9018-442: The Viceroy and Governor-General of India . Head of state is the highest-ranking constitutional position in a sovereign state. A head of state has some or all of the roles listed below, often depending on the constitutional category (above), and does not necessarily regularly exercise the most power or influence of governance. There is usually a formal public ceremony when a person becomes head of state, or some time after. This may be
9185-399: The coat of arms of Belgium . Above the door leading to the Grand Staircase, a bas-relief depicts two female figures holding hands above a crowned lion and holding a sword and a bundle of arrows. It is a representation of the union of the Northern Provinces (holding a rudder ) and the Southern Provinces (holding a cornucopia ) under the aegis of the House of Orange-Nassau (represented by
9352-413: The constitutionally socialist state type inspired by the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) and its constitutive Soviet republics , real political power belonged to the sole legal party. In these states, there was no formal office of head of state, but rather the leader of the legislative branch was considered to be the closest common equivalent of a head of state as a natural person . In
9519-409: The de facto Soviet leader at the moment. For example, Nikita Khrushchev never headed the Supreme Soviet but was First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party (party leader) and Chairman of the Council of Ministers ( head of government ). This may even lead to an institutional variability, as in North Korea , where, after the presidency of party leader Kim Il Sung , the office
9686-452: The high contracting party with respect to international treaties. The remaining official functions of the sovereign, by constitutional mandate or by unwritten convention, are to open the annual session of the Riksdag, receive foreign ambassadors and sign the letters of credence for Swedish ambassadors, chair the foreign advisory committee, preside at the special Cabinet council when a new prime minister takes office, and to be kept informed by
9853-476: The mantelpiece clock with a bronze reproduction of Michelangelo's Il Pensieroso ("The Thinker"), which adorns the fireplace. This space is also used as a chapel in the event of the death of a member of the Belgian royal family . Requested by Leopold II from Henri Maquet as a tribute to his Congo colony , the Hall of Mirrors contains many elements reminiscent of its primary vocation: exotic plant decorations, lion figures, copper sconces (and not gilding ,
10020-488: The official residence of the head of state (or representative) who is hosting the state visit, in a guest house reserved for foreign visitors, or in their own nation's embassy located in the foreign nation being visited. State visits by well-known global leaders or figures, such as the British Monarch , the president of the United States or the pope , often draw much publicity and large crowds. Occasionally, these include protesters. State visits to Armenia are held in
10187-415: The personification of the Canadian state and is described by the Department of Canadian Heritage as the "personal symbol of allegiance, unity and authority for all Canadians". In many countries, official portraits of the head of state can be found in government offices, courts of law, or other public buildings. The idea, sometimes regulated by law, is to use these portraits to make the public aware of
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#173310628444310354-482: The "imperial model", because the executive officials of the government are answerable solely and exclusively to a presiding, acting head of state, and is selected by and on occasion dismissed by the head of state without reference to the legislature. It is notable that some presidential systems, while not providing for collective executive accountability to the legislature, may require legislative approval for individuals prior to their assumption of cabinet office and empower
10521-404: The 21-gun salute is the State Honors Artillery Battery, coming under the 1st Artillery Battalion (Separate) of the 1st Army Corps. The State Diplomatic Protocol (SDP) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova organizes activities concerning state visits to the Moldovan capital of Chișinău . All state arrival ceremonies take place at the Presidential Administration or
10688-427: The Ceremonial Office of the Ministry of Defense handles protocol related to the Italian Armed Forces , and the Diplomatic Ceremonial Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handles protocol related to the diplomatic corps. Japan extends invitations for state visitors and official visitors aims to promote the friendship and relation between Japan and the country of the invitee. In addition to state and official visits,
10855-403: The Chancellery due to Chancellor Angela Merkel 's unusual episodes of shaking and uneasiness during the honours ceremony. Currently, only Moldovan Premier Maia Sandu and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen have had to be received under this arrangement. Foreign leaders are received at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi during state visits. The dignitary first receives the salute from
11022-428: The Congo being very rich in copper mines) and especially terrestrial globes depicting Africa in the pediments above the chimneys. The architect and the king having died a few months apart, Albert I decided not to pursue his uncle's plans and to have mirrors installed between the columns instead of the allegorical paintings initially planned. At that time, the barrel ceiling remained unfinished and only covered with
11189-400: The Death of Princess Charlotte , is a work by portrait painter and historian Arthur William Devis . Works by Michaël Borremans were also added to the room during its refurbishment in 2010. Vestige of the former Hotel Belgiojoso renovated under William I to make it a ballroom, the Empire Room's decoration still bears traces of the Austrian era , such as the dancing putti above the doors. It
11356-403: The East Court of the Great Hall of the People on Tiananmen Square in Beijing . The guard of honour for the ceremony is provided by the Beijing Garrison Honor Guard , with musical accompaniment provided by the Central Military Band of the People's Liberation Army of China . As the military band plays the national anthems of the two countries, an artillery battery fires a 21-gun salute. After
11523-549: The Empire Room, the Small and Large White Drawing Rooms are among the oldest parts of the palace. The original 18th-century decorations have been preserved. The Empire style furniture, a wedding present given by King Louis Philippe I of the French to his daughter Louise of Orléans and Leopold I, still bears its original Beauvais tapestry decoration. The Small White Drawing Room is decorated with portraits of Louise and her parents, Louis-Philippe and Princess Maria Amalia of Naples and Sicily . Built by Balat between 1868 and 1872,
11690-483: The German Wachbataillon (Guard battalion) and the Staff Band of the Bundeswehr . An exception to this was on 3 May 2007 during the visit of French President Jacques Chirac to Berlin, during which the Franco-German Brigade provided the honors. Depending on the status of the guest, state ceremonies are either held at the Bellevue Palace or the Federal Chancellery Complex . In recent years, state visits have been marked with dignitaries paying homage at memorials such as
11857-434: The German president, Paul von Hindenburg , was able to dismiss a chancellor and select his own person for the job, even though the outgoing chancellor possessed the confidence of the Reichstag while the new chancellor did not. Subsequently, President von Hindenburg used his power to appoint Adolf Hitler as Chancellor without consulting the Reichstag. Note: The head of state in a "presidential" system may not actually hold
12024-676: The Habsburg Netherlands . The Aula Magna , a gigantic room for royal receptions and other pageantry , was built for Philip the Good in the 15th century. The first regular meetings of the States General , composed of delegates from the middle class, clergy and nobility of the Burgundian Netherlands , were held there in 1465. It was in this room that, in 1515, Duchess Margaret of Austria formally relinquished her regency over
12191-504: The Japanese government also extends several other forms of invitations to visit the country. The invitation of official practical visitors, practical visitors, and visitors to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs aim to promote negotiations, to strengthen security and to be used for policy coordination, etc. The invitation of ministers is an invitation extended to ministers from other countries, and aims to have them deepen their understanding of Japan and send information about Japan based on
12358-500: The Netherlands . Produced by the sculptors François Rude and Jean-Louis van Geel [ fr ] around 1826, the frieze running all around the room thus represents the four main economic activities of the country ( Trade , Navigation , Industry and Agriculture ) and the four virtues of good governance ( Abundance , Prudence , Armed force and Peace ). The frieze was reworked under Leopold II to include his cipher and
12525-661: The Palace of Laeken, like all the kings who have succeeded him. The palace's interior was completely renovated in 1955–1958. In 1987, the Ministry of Public Works undertook the restoration, among others, of the Empire Room, the Throne Room and the Small and Large White Drawing Rooms. Since 1965, the palace has been open to the public regularly from 21 July ( Belgian National Day ) until the beginning of September. Visiting hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Around 2010, some of
12692-559: The Riksdag appoints (following a vote in the Riksdag ) the prime minister and terminates their commission following a vote of no confidence or voluntary resignation. Cabinet members are appointed and dismissed at the sole discretion of the prime minister. Laws and ordinances are promulgated by two Cabinet members in unison signing "On Behalf of the Government" and the government—not the monarch—is
12859-1006: The Soviet Union this position carried such titles as Chairman of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR ; Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet ; and in the case of the Soviet Russia Chairman of the Central Executive Committee of the All-Russian Congress of Soviets (pre-1922), and Chairman of the Bureau of the Central Committee of the Russian SFSR (1956–1966). This position may or may not have been held by
13026-540: The Square Room to the Throne Room while skirting the Brabant Courtyard. It was originally intended to include a gallery of portraits of the historic rulers of Belgium, but this idea was never realised. Its current decoration, in a fairly sober neo- Louis XVI style with white stucco and Corinthian pilasters raised in gold, is embellished with allegorical paintings by Charles-Léon Cardon , reproducing or even copying at
13193-711: The Venice Staircase owes its name to the large oils on canvas representing different views of Venice . Painted by Jean-Baptiste Van Moer [ fr ] in 1867 (while the painter was using his Prix de Rome to visit Italy), they represent Saint Mark's Square , the Grand Canal and the inner courtyard of the Doge's Palace . Other paintings, representing the Piazzetta and the Porta della Carta were later commissioned by Leopold II from
13360-460: The abbot's residence of the nearby Coudenberg Abbey, while the other was inhabited by important government members. After the Congress of Vienna in 1814–15, Brussels became (together with The Hague ) the joint capital of the new established United Kingdom of the Netherlands . It was under the rule of King William I of the Netherlands that the street was covered and the two mansions were joined with
13527-455: The approval of each of the six independent realms of which he was monarch. In monarchies with a written constitution, the position of monarch is created under the constitution and could be abolished through a democratic procedure of constitutional amendment. In many cases there are significant procedural hurdles imposed on such a procedure (as in the Constitution of Spain ). In republics with
13694-497: The artist and installed in a small annex corridor. Unlike most European royal residences, the Palace of Brussels is no longer the real residence of the Kings of the Belgians, who prefer to live in the Palace of Laeken . It was under Leopold III that the palace really only became a place of work, housing the king's office as well as the services of his household. It was also at the palace that
13861-528: The ball given the day before the wedding of King Baudouin with Fabiola de Mora y Aragón in 1960 or the reception that followed the wedding of Prince Philippe with Mathilde d'Udekem d'Acoz in 1999. Built by Balat in the west wing of the palace, the Marble Room owes its name to its panelling and its green, pink and black marble fireplaces. On the walls, two portraits by Louis Gallait represent Godfrey of Bouillon and Charles V . The space served mainly as
14028-410: The band finishes its performance, the two leaders then inspect the guard of honour at the invitation of the guard commander. Following the inspection, both leaders embrace schoolchildren who wave flowers and the flags of both countries. At this time, the band performs a military march or folk song from the guest country. If a prime minister or chancellor or crown prince visits China, the welcoming ceremony
14195-512: The capital of Yerevan , with a welcoming ceremony usually being held at Zvartnots International Airport . Foreign heads of state are welcomed at the President's Residence while heads of government are welcomed at the Residence of the Prime Minister . These visits consist of the following components: Since 1991, foreign leaders who embark on visits to Armenia have paid tribute to the victims of
14362-676: The ceremony. The rest of the day includes bilateral meetings, one on one conversations, a joint press conference, and a state dinner, where the exchange of gifts and the awarding of honors takes place. The next day sees the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Altar of the Homeland . All protocol events in the capital are organized by the State Ceremonial Office. In particular,
14529-559: The constitution (or customary law) assumes all political responsibility by granting the crown inviolability (in fact also imposing political emasculation) as in the Kingdom of Belgium from its very beginning; in a monarchy this may even be extended to some degree to other members of the dynasty, especially the heir to the throne. Below follows a list of examples from different countries of general provisions in law, which either designate an office as head of state or define its general purpose. In
14696-599: The country's monarch (and other members of the royal family) are not state or official visits, as the monarch conducts royal tours in his capacity as the Canadian head of state, not as a foreign head of state. Additionally, because the Canadian sovereign is shared with 14 other Commonwealth realms , state visits are not conducted between realms, with official visits performed by the realms' respective governor-general , or prime minister . State arrival ceremonies in China take place at
14863-589: The country, the flag is hoisted on the central building. If he is present inside the palace, then the guard of honour stands at the front of the palace. The adjacent park, Brussels Park , is separated from the Royal Palace by the Place des Palais. This rectangular park, measuring more than 13 ha (32 acres), contains around sixty sculptures, primarily inspired by Greco-Roman mythology ; two water basins with fountains; monumental neoclassical railings and gates; as well as two bandstands where numerous shows take place in
15030-427: The current Constitution of France (1958), said that the head of state should embody l'esprit de la nation ("the spirit of the nation"). Some academic writers discuss states and governments in terms of "models". An independent nation state normally has a head of state, and determines the extent of its head's executive powers of government or formal representational functions. In terms of protocol :
15197-460: The decision by King Leopold III of the Belgians to surrender on behalf of his state to the invading German army in 1940, against the will of his government. Judging that his responsibility to the nation by virtue of his coronation oath required him to act, he believed that his government's decision to fight rather than surrender was mistaken and would damage Belgium. (Leopold's decision proved highly controversial. After World War II , Belgium voted in
15364-455: The decorator Axel Vervoordt to renovate the room. It was completely modified, going so far as to repaint the walls in the ochre colour they had in the Dutch era (hence the change of name for this room). It now houses a portrait of Leopold I painted in 1846 by Franz Xaver Winterhalter , Empire style armchairs that belonged to Napoleon and his wife Joséphine at the Palace of Laeken , as well as
15531-838: The delegation to the ROC president. The military welcome accorded to foreign leaders at Prague Castle are provided by troops of the Prague Castle Guard , Honor Guard of the Czech Armed Forces , the Czech Army Central Band , the Band of the Castle Guards and Police and units of the Prague Garrison Command . The Protocol Services of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for arranging high-level international visits and Finland's own state events. The task of
15698-543: The east, and to the Hôtel Belle-Vue to the west. The Royal Palace is especially striking for the magnificence of its interiors and some important works of art are exhibited there. Located on the site of the former Rue Héraldique , the Grand Staircase was designed by Alphonse Balat in 1868 and 1872. In front of the central flight, in a false loggia , dominates a statue of Peace in the guise of Minerva made by
15865-449: The executive: they do not possess even theoretical executive powers or any role, even formal, within the government. Hence their states' governments are not referred to by the traditional parliamentary model head of state styles of His/Her Majesty's Government or His/Her Excellency's Government . Within this general category, variants in terms of powers and functions may exist. The Constitution of Japan ( 日本国憲法 , Nihonkoku-Kenpō )
16032-497: The expression blue blood ), the room was full of paintings and included a table set with the famous birds of Buffon service ordered to the painter Frédéric Théodore Faber . Even if this noble privilege disappeared during the reign of Baudouin, the expression Princes and Dukes of the Blue Room survived in the documents regulating precedence . On the occasion of the Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) in 2010, Queen Paola asked
16199-442: The following components (each host country has its own traditions): The visiting head of state (or their representative) is usually accompanied by a senior government minister, usually by a foreign minister . Behind the diplomatic protocol , delegations made up from trade organizations also accompany the visiting head of state, offer an opportunity to network and develop economic, cultural, and social links with industry leaders in
16366-525: The form of official patronage. The Olympic Charter (rule 55.3) of the International Olympic Committee states that the Olympic summer and winter games shall be opened by the head of state of the host nation, by uttering a single formulaic phrase as determined by the charter. As such invitations may be very numerous, such duties are often in part delegated to such persons as a spouse,
16533-495: The government be answerable to both the president and the legislature. The constitution of the Fifth French Republic provides for a prime minister who is chosen by the president, but who nevertheless must be able to gain support in the National Assembly . Should a president be of one side of the political spectrum and the opposition be in control of the legislature, the president is usually obliged to select someone from
16700-461: The guard, paying homage to the Mexican flag and the flag of the guest country along the way. The ceremony then ends and the two go into the palace to begin their bilateral meeting. The Campo Marte ceremony is similar in style to the palace ceremony with the main differences being a 21-gun salute , opening remarks , and the military parade being added to the program. The unit responsible currently for
16867-576: The guest in the boardroom to allow the handling of airport formalities. Arrival honors for foreign dignitaries visiting Rome are held either at the Quirinal Palace (official residence of the president of the Italian Republic) or the Palazzo Chigi (official residence of the prime minister of the Italian Republic). During the ceremony, the guard of honor is provided by a military unit (most likely
17034-412: The head of a sovereign , independent state is usually identified as the person who, according to that state's constitution, is the reigning monarch , in the case of a monarchy ; or the president, in the case of a republic . Among the state constitutions (fundamental laws) that establish different political systems, four major types of heads of state can be distinguished: In a federal constituent or
17201-660: The head of government's advice. In practice, these decisions are often a formality. The last time the prime minister of the United Kingdom was unilaterally selected by the monarch was in 1963, when Queen Elizabeth II appointed Alec Douglas-Home on the advice of outgoing Prime Minister Harold Macmillan . Royal Palace of Brussels The Royal Palace of Brussels ( French : Palais royal de Bruxelles [palɛ ʁwajal də bʁysɛl] ; Dutch : Koninklijk Paleis van Brussel [ˈkoːnɪŋklək paːˈlɛis fɑm ˈbrʏsəl] ; German : Königlicher Palast von Brüssel )
17368-454: The head of state is not the head of government, but still has significant powers, for example Morocco . In contrast, a semi-presidential system , such as France , has both heads of state and government as the de facto leaders of the nation (in practice they divide the leadership of the nation between themselves). Meanwhile, in presidential systems , the head of state is also the head of government. In one-party ruling communist states ,
17535-587: The head of state is notional chief executive include Australia , Austria , Canada , Denmark , India , Italy , Norway , Spain and the United Kingdom . The few exceptions where the head of state is not even the nominal chief executive - and where supreme executive authority is according to the constitution explicitly vested in a cabinet - include the Czech Republic , Ireland , Israel , Japan and Sweden . The head of state usually appoints most or all
17702-452: The head of state may be a ceremonial figurehead or concurrently the head of government and more. In a parliamentary system , such as India or the United Kingdom , the head of state usually has mostly ceremonial powers, with a separate head of government. However, in some parliamentary systems, like South Africa , there is an executive president that is both head of state and head of government. Likewise, in some parliamentary systems
17869-545: The head of state. In parliamentary constitutional monarchies , the legitimacy of the unelected head of state typically derives from the tacit approval of the people via the elected representatives. Accordingly, at the time of the Glorious Revolution , the English parliament acted of its own authority to name a new king and queen (the joint monarchs Mary II and William III ); likewise, Edward VIII 's abdication required
18036-460: The highest expression of friendly bilateral relations between two sovereign states , and are in general characterised by an emphasis on official public ceremonies. Less formal visits than a state visit to another country with a lesser emphasis on ceremonial events, by either a head of state (their representative) or a head of government , can be classified (in descending order of magnitude) as either an official visit , an official working visit ,
18203-690: The inspection of the honour guard. During the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili , the band played the March of the Preobrazhensky Regiment during state visits. During state visits, dignitaries usually meet with the prime minister , chairperson of the Parliament , and the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia separately from the president. State dinners are also held inside the presidential palace with officials from both countries present. During state visits to Germany, honours are provided by
18370-688: The itinerary has included a visit to the Yad Vashem memorial. There the leader, accompanied by the prime minister, will rekindle the Eternal Flame, and will also lay a wreath in memorial of the 6 million Jews murdered in the holocaust. When dignitaries arrive in the Italian capital of Rome , they are received in a short reception ceremony at the airport by the head of the Diplomatic Ceremonial Office among other officials, who then briefly entertain
18537-406: The key officials in the government, including the head of government and other cabinet ministers, key judicial figures; and all major office holders in the civil service , foreign service and commissioned officers in the military . In many parliamentary systems, the head of government is appointed with the consent (in practice often decisive) of the legislature, and other figures are appointed on
18704-556: The king had the power of declaring war without previous consent of the parliament. For example, under the 1848 constitution of the Kingdom of Sardinia , and then the Kingdom of Italy , the Statuto Albertino —the parliamentary approval to the government appointed by the king—was customary, but not required by law. Examples of heads of state in parliamentary systems using greater powers than usual, either because of ambiguous constitutions or unprecedented national emergencies, include
18871-524: The knowledge obtained through invitations through conference, inspection, etc. with Japanese VIPs and experts. The invitation of strategic practitioners is an invitation extended to certain members in certain positions or those who are expected to hold a certain leadership position in the future, in political, economic, governmental, academic, etc., in foreign countries or international organizations. It aims to promote understanding of Japan's various policies and fields such as culture and society, to facilitate
19038-414: The leading symbol of the nation, the president in this system acts mostly as a prime minister since the incumbent must be a member of the legislature at the time of the election, answer question sessions in Parliament, avoid motions of no confidence, etc. Semi-presidential systems combine features of presidential and parliamentary systems, notably (in the president-parliamentary subtype) a requirement that
19205-402: The legislature to remove a president from office (for example, in the United States of America ). In this case the debate centers on confirming them into office, not removing them from office, and does not involve the power to reject or approve proposed cabinet members en bloc , so accountability does not operate in the same sense understood as a parliamentary system. Presidential systems are
19372-484: The length of the building. A large part of the shallow grounds located in front of the palace were also filled in, in order to increase the space in front of its façade. After the designs of the king's architect Alphonse Balat , imposing rooms like the Grand Staircase, the Throne Room and the Grand Gallery were added. Balat also planned a new façade but died before the plans could be executed. The palace's current façade
19539-484: The lion). It is therefore the last true Dutch symbol present in the palace, as the lion is still the one depicted on the coat of arms of the Netherlands . There are also in this room two paintings by the English portraitist George Dawe representing the young Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha and Princess Charlotte of Wales at the time of their wedding. The 'Il Pensieroso' Room or Square Room takes its former name from
19706-515: The majority of states, whether republics or monarchies, executive authority is vested, at least notionally, in the head of state. In presidential systems the head of state is the actual, de facto chief executive officer. Under parliamentary systems the executive authority is exercised by the head of state, but in practice is done so on the advice of the cabinet of ministers. This produces such terms as "Her Majesty's Government" and "His Excellency's Government." Examples of parliamentary systems in which
19873-423: The marriage of Prince Albert of Liège to Paola Ruffo di Calabria in 1959 and the signing of the sixth state reform in 2014. It also contains a work by Patrick Corillon [ fr ] entitled Flowers of the Royal Palace . The Coburg Room takes its name from the set of portraits representing a large number of relatives of Leopold I by different artists. One can find there as well: the king himself, when he
20040-567: The monarch at the Royal Palace of Amsterdam , where they receive a guard of honour formed by the Grenadiers' and Rifles Guard Regiment upon arrival. It is here where all matters of state and bilateral meetings take place over the course of the visit. During a state visit, the Dutch monarch always hosts a state dinner in honor of the guest, sometimes at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam and at other times at
20207-655: The monarch's residence at the Noordeinde Palace in The Hague. It is customary to be awarded the Knight Grand Cross Order of the Netherlands Lion during state visits. Head of state A head of state (or chief of state ) is the public persona of a state or sovereign state . The specific naming of the head of state depends on the country's form of government and separation of powers ;
20374-414: The more constitutional leeway tends to exist for a head of state to exercise greater powers over government, as many older parliamentary system constitutions in fact give heads of state powers and functions akin to presidential or semi-presidential systems, in some cases without containing reference to modern democratic principles of accountability to parliament or even to modern governmental offices. Usually,
20541-569: The motifs of the Dying Slave and the Rebellious Slave by Michelangelo , as well as two Egyptian statues of the goddess Sekhmet probably brought back by the young Prince Leopold during his trips to the Orient , . The Large Anteroom was used under William I of the Netherlands as the Throne Room. Its decoration is therefore loaded with many political symbols relating to the United Kingdom of
20708-518: The nation being visited. At the end of a state visit, the foreign head of state (or representative) traditionally issues a formal invitation to the head of state (or representative) of the nation being visited who at another time in the future, would pay a reciprocal state visit. While the costs of a state visit are usually borne by state funds of the host country, most nations host fewer than ten state visits per year, with some as few as two. Most foreign heads of state (or their representative) will stay in
20875-409: The nominal chief executive officer , heading the executive branch of the state, and possessing limited executive power. In reality, however, following a process of constitutional evolution, powers are usually only exercised by direction of a cabinet , presided over by a head of government who is answerable to the legislature. This accountability and legitimacy requires that someone be chosen who has
21042-683: The office of President of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly , while the party leader's post as chairman of the National Defense Commission was simultaneously declared "the highest post of the state", not unlike Deng Xiaoping earlier in the People's Republic of China . In China , under the current country's constitution , the Chinese President is a largely ceremonial office with limited power. However, since 1993, as
21209-717: The offices of the King and the Queen, the Royal Palace houses the services of the Grand Marshal of the Court, the King's Head of Cabinet, the Head of the King's Military Household and the Intendant of the King's Civil List. The Royal Palace also includes the State Rooms where large receptions are held, as well as the apartments provided for foreign Heads of State during official visits. The first nucleus of
21376-633: The official program includes at least the laying a wreath on Marshal Mannerheim 's grave at the Hietaniemi Cemetery , and a visit to the Parliament House or the Helsinki City Hall . The visit usually ends with state dinners held at the Presidential Palace, where the heads of state give their speeches. State arrival ceremonies are held at either the Elysee Palace or Les Invalides , with
21543-446: The old mansions were incorporated in the new Royal Palace and were only partly refurnished. Some of them survived the 19th and 20th centuries' renovations and are still partly intact. A major addition to the interior decoration from the time of William I is the so-called "Empire Room", which was designed as a ballroom. It has a very refined cream and gold decoration designed and executed by the famous French sculptor François Rude . After
21710-452: The old palace's garden was redesigned as a public park. On the northern side, a new building for the Council of Brabant was built by the French architect Gilles-Barnabé Guimard , which now houses the Belgian Federal Parliament and is known as the Palace of the Nation . On the other side of the park (the building plot of the present-day Royal Palace), the park's middle axis continued as a street between two newly built mansions. One served as
21877-404: The opposition to become prime minister, a process known as Cohabitation . President François Mitterrand , a Socialist, for example, was forced to cohabit with the neo-Gaullist (right wing) Jacques Chirac , who became his prime minister from 1986 to 1988. In the French system, in the event of cohabitation, the president is often allowed to set the policy agenda in security and foreign affairs and
22044-415: The palace's halls were converted into meeting rooms, with adapted sound systems and facilities for simultaneous interpretation. In March 2023, new renovation work began on the palace's façade, including the installation of double glazing . The balustrades, stone stairs, garden walls, gates and fences are also being repaired. The project cost approximately €6 million. The Royal Palace, imposing and majestic,
22211-416: The palace. It was his son and successor, King Leopold II , who judging the building to be too modest for a king of his stature, kept on enlarging and embellishing the palace until his death in 1909. During Leopold II's reign, the palace nearly doubled in surface area. The houses located between the different buildings were destroyed and gave way to two symmetrical curved galleries, which considerably widened
22378-401: The participation of the Infantry and Fanfare Band of the French Republican Guard Band and the 1st Infantry Regiment of the Republican Guard . The Vestibule d'Honneur (Hall of Honour) in the Elysee is where the president of France meets visiting dignitaries and holds bilateral meetings. Towards the end of the visit, the head of state or governments will give a speech at the Palais Bourbon to
22545-438: The plural form because another palace was built on the left side of the Royal Palace. This new building (1823) was designed as the residence of the Crown Prince called the Prince of Orange (the future King William II of the Netherlands ). Nowadays, it houses five Belgian academies including the Royal Academies for Science and the Arts of Belgium (RASAB) and is consequently called the Academy Palace . The rooms and salons of
22712-401: The position of president has no tangible powers by itself; however, since such a head of state, as a matter of custom, simultaneously holds the post of General Secretary of the Communist Party , they are the executive leader with their powers deriving from their status of being the party leader , rather than the office of president. Former French president Charles de Gaulle , while developing
22879-408: The present-day building dates from the end of the 18th century. However, the grounds on which the Royal Palace stands were once part of the Palace of Coudenberg , a very old palatial complex that dated back to the Middle Ages . The existing façade was only built after 1900 on the initiative of King Leopold II . The Royal Palace is situated in front of Brussels Park , from which it is separated by
23046-704: The presidential model also encompasses people who become head of state by other means, notably through military dictatorship or coup d'état , as often seen in Latin American , Middle Eastern and other presidential regimes. Some of the characteristics of a presidential system, such as a strong dominant political figure with an executive answerable to them, not the legislature can also be found among absolute monarchies , parliamentary monarchies and single party (e.g., Communist ) regimes, but in most cases of dictatorship, their stated constitutional models are applied in name only and not in political theory or practice. In certain states under Marxist–Leninist constitutions of
23213-439: The prime minister on matters of state. In contrast, the only contact the president of Ireland has with the Irish government is through a formal briefing session given by the taoiseach (head of government) to the president. However, the president has no access to documentation and all access to ministers goes through the Department of the Taoiseach . The president does, however, hold limited reserve powers , such as referring
23380-401: The prime minister runs the domestic and economic agenda. Other countries evolve into something akin to a semi-presidential system or indeed a full presidential system. Weimar Germany , for example, in its constitution provided for a popularly elected president with theoretically dominant executive powers that were intended to be exercised only in emergencies, and a cabinet appointed by him from
23547-429: The prime minister, and to pardon criminals or to commute their sentence. Some parliamentary republics (like South Africa , Botswana and Kiribati ) have fused the roles of the head of state with the head of government (like in a presidential system), while having the sole executive officer, often called a president, being dependent on the Parliament's confidence to rule (like in a parliamentary system). While also being
23714-435: The promotion of Japan's foreign policy through personal connections with Japanese experts, and to promote pro-Japan in the medium- and long-term through briefings with private experts, Japanese cultural experiences, and local visits. During the state visits by people belonging to the upper two categories, guards of honour are mounted by the Imperial Guard of the National Police Agency and the 302nd Military Police Company of
23881-421: The protocol services is to take care of receiving, escorting, accommodation, transportation and meal arrangements for guests. In Finland, state visits usually follow a certain pattern that has already become a tradition. The official reception ceremonies take place in front of the Presidential Palace or alternatively at Helsinki Airport . At the reception ceremony, the head of the visiting country, together with
24048-407: The request of Leopold II works by the French painters Charles Le Brun and Louis-Jacques Durameau : Dawn , Day and Twilight are completed by Aurora located on one of the central walls. This gallery, ideal for its length and the possibility of housing an orchestra on a raised balcony, often hosts receptions: for example the dinner given in honour of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh in 1958,
24215-409: The ruling party. The president of the State of Israel , in his or her position as head of state, leads the welcoming events and is the official host of foreign leaders who visit Israel . A guard of honor made up of personnel of all the service branches of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are usually lined up at the main V.I.P terminal of Ben Gurion International Airport . During some state visits,
24382-400: The sculptor Charles-Auguste Fraikin in 1877. The steps are made of white marble and the banisters of green marble enhanced with bronze decoration. Access to this staircase is via a vestibule housing the busts of some Kings and Queens of the Belgians . Two full-length portraits of the current sovereigns frame the door. One also finds in these spaces two bronze candelabra taking up
24549-411: The sculptor Thomas Vinçotte . The new design includes a formal front garden with gilded railings, gates and balustrades , separating the building from the Place des Palais. The work left unfinished at the death of Leopold II in 1909 and Maquet in 1911 was taken up under King Albert I by Maquet's pupil, Octave Flanneau [ fr ] , who rebuilt the Hôtel de la Liste Civile. Interrupted by
24716-477: The state residences all over the country. State visits to Mexico City are held on a regular basis. Arrival ceremonies are usually held at the National Palace , the president's workplace or at Mexico City International Airport . On certain occasions, a full honors ceremony with the participation of the National Guard 's Presidential Guards Corps are held at Campo Marte , where the corps' two military police brigades are stationed. The arrival ceremony begins with
24883-407: The state rooms. During state visits, the royal apartments and suites are at the disposal of visiting heads of state. Ambassadors too are received there with state ceremony. New Year's receptions are held for NATO , EU ambassadors and politicians. Royal wedding banquets take place in the palace, and after their death, the body of the deceased king lies in state there. If the king is currently in
25050-400: The state visit traditionally comes to a close with a state banquet at the Castle of Laeken , which is the official residence of the king of the Belgians. It is customary to be awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Leopold during state visits. The Office of Protocol coordinates the operational aspects of state and official visits to Canada and manages all events that are related to
25217-409: The strengthening of the Prince's powers, vis-a-vis the Landtag (legislature), has moved Liechtenstein into the semi-presidential category. Similarly the original powers given to the Greek President under the 1974 Hellenic Republic constitution moved Greece closer to the French semi-presidential model. Another complication exists with South Africa , in which the president is in fact elected by
25384-424: The surrounding town. The monumental vaults remaining under the square and its surrounding buildings can be visited. Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine , at that time Governor of the Austrian Netherlands , had a new palace, the Palace of Charles of Lorraine , built on the nearby site of the former Palace of Orange-Nassau . The Palace of Charles of Lorraine is now part of the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR) and
25551-399: The swearing in at the inauguration of a president of a republic, or the coronation of a monarch. One of the most important roles of the modern head of state is being a living national symbol of the state; in hereditary monarchies this extends to the monarch being a symbol of the unbroken continuity of the state. For instance, the Canadian monarch is described by the government as being
25718-498: The symbolic connection to the government, a practice that dates back to medieval times. Sometimes this practice is taken to excess, and the head of state becomes the principal symbol of the nation, resulting in the emergence of a personality cult where the image of the head of state is the only visual representation of the country, surpassing other symbols such as the flag . Other common representations are on coins , postage and other stamps and banknotes , sometimes by no more than
25885-480: The time of her Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Although she was sovereign of each of the Commonwealth realms , in practice, she usually performed full state visits as Queen of the United Kingdom , while the relevant governor-general undertook state visits for his or her respective country on the sovereign's behalf. However, the Queen occasionally made some state and official visits representing one of her other Commonwealth realms. State visits typically involve some or all
26052-436: The title of " president " - the name of the system refers to any head of state who actually governs and is not directly dependent on the legislature to remain in office. Some constitutions or fundamental laws provide for a head of state who is not only in theory but in practice chief executive, operating separately from, and independent from, the legislature. This system is known as a "presidential system" and sometimes called
26219-425: The tri-service honor guard of the Republic of China Armed Forces , led by a colonel. After inspecting the troops, the president of Taiwan delivers welcome remarks, after which the foreign leader speaks, before receiving a key to the city from the mayor of Taipei , and the director of the Department of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs then introducing members of the cabinet to the dignitary and members of
26386-424: The two countries (the Himno Nacional Mexicano is always played first). Then the president of Mexico introduces members of his or her cabinet before the visiting dignitary introduces members of their delegation accompanying them on this visit. After this is done, the commander of the National Guard's honour guard company then delivers the following report to the dignitary: The president and the dignitary then inspect
26553-475: The visit. It also defines the protocol standards for state visits of heads of state and government. The Governor General's Foot Guards , one of two household foot guards , take part in state and official visits to Ottawa . Arrival ceremonies take place at either Parliament Hill or Rideau Hall , where the visitor will be received by the governor general of Canada (for state visits) or prime minister of Canada (for official visits). State visits also include
26720-472: The will of Leopold II, whose monogram is inscribed in the parquet flooring in oak , maple , mahogany and ebony . It was Queen Elisabeth who had the red velvet and silk hangings installed. The exterior spaces are each decorated with a large allegorical bas-relief of the Meuse and Scheldt rivers, works of the sculptor Thomas Vinçotte . The perimeter of the central space is decorated with female figures attributed to Auguste Rodin , representing
26887-455: Was born there ( Leopold II , on 9 April 1835), none died there, but many marriages took place there: among many others, that of the future Leopold II with Marie-Henriette of Habsburg-Lorraine , that of Princess Charlotte with Archduke Maximilian , that of Prince Albert of Liège with Paola Ruffo di Calabria , that of King Baudouin with Fabiola de Mora y Aragón and that of Prince Philippe with Mathilde d'Udekem d'Acoz . The palace plays
27054-418: Was drawn up under the Allied occupation that followed World War II and was intended to replace the previous militaristic and quasi- absolute monarchy system with a form of liberal democracy parliamentary system . The constitution explicitly vests all executive power in the Cabinet , who is chaired by the prime minister (articles 65 and 66) and responsible to the Diet (articles 67 and 69). The emperor
27221-477: Was in this room that Napoleon received with his wife Joséphine the authorities of the City of Brussels in 1803. On the floor, the room sometimes houses a huge Kerman carpet offered by Shah Mozaffar ad-Din Shah Qajar of Persia to Leopold II in 1900, and which recalls this gift in a Persian inscription. On the two central chimneys, one can also admire busts of Leopold I and his son, Prince Philippe, Count of Flanders . This room housed, among other things,
27388-440: Was nominally a presidential republic. However, the elected civilian presidents were effectively figureheads with real political power being exercised by the chief of the Panamanian Defense Forces . Historically, at the time of the League of Nations (1920–1946) and the founding of the United Nations (1945), India's head of state was the monarch of the United Kingdom, ruling directly or indirectly as Emperor of India through
27555-457: Was only executed after 1904 according to new plans by the architect Henri Maquet . Suys' façade was demolished for this undertaking and the new façade was added to the gutted salons. The salons and the Empire Room in the east wing were restored, as were the Hall of Mirrors and new salons in the west wing. The sculpture of the façade's pediment shows an allegorical figure of Belgium flanked by groups representing Industry and Agriculture , by
27722-537: Was still only prince of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld (the name of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha would only come after the acquisition of the eponymous duchy by his brother Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha ); his father Francis, Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld ; his mother Countess Augusta Reuss of Ebersdorf ; his sister Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld and brother-in-law Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn (parents of Queen Victoria ); his great-uncle Prince Josias of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld ( generalfeldmarschall of
27889-411: Was vacant for years. The late president was granted the posthumous title (akin to some ancient Far Eastern traditions to give posthumous names and titles to royalty) of " Eternal President " . All substantive power, as party leader, itself not formally created for four years, was inherited by his son Kim Jong Il . The post of president was formally replaced on 5 September 1998, for ceremonial purposes, by
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