Heads of state regularly meet. Sometimes their visits are informal or strictly business. State visits however are strictly formal and serve to tighten old ties of friendship or as a token of recognition for new regimes. They are characterised by an abundance of ceremony. Tours, receptions, gala dinners, speeches and many visits to all kinds of institutions.
Business is not forgotten. Government officials and captains of industry travel in the wake of the head of state to meet with their foreign collegues.