9. Following the military inspection, both the American and guest head of state makes brief addresses to those assembled
Following the review of the assembled troops, the President of the United States delivers a brief address welcoming his guests to the White House. Contrasting with the preceding seriousness of the military inspection, in addition to imparting sincere expressions regarding the bilateral relations between their countries this occasion is generally seized as an opportunity to lighten the mood and defuse any nerves between himself and his guests. Light-hearted remarks concerning historic rivalries form the basis of these exchanges, with their extent a close measure of the personal friendliness of the respective heads of state.
Following this polite introduction, the visiting head of state is then granted the opportunity to make his own address in response. Akin to their American counterpart’s statements, the visiting dignitary is expected to thank their hosts, speak on the subject of the enduring friendship between their nations, and express their hopes for the visit. Typically, the speech offered by the guest head of state is considerably shorter than the American President and possessing fewer prepared jokes to avoid any potential diplomatic incident. After completion, a procession is formed which enters the White House via the Blue Room.