It is likely the visit this week of Donald Trump to Britain and Ireland will be viewed with mixed feelings by the governments of both countries.
The President of the United States wields such enormous power - politically, militarily and economically - that the leaders of foreign countries have to steer a delicate diplomatic path when dealing with his pronouncements and policies.
By contrast, Mr Trump feels no compunction to moderate his tone or display a degree of sensitivity when talking about nations beyond the US, particularly those where he is being received as an honoured guest.
We are no longer surprised at the president's appalling manners, his lack of respect for others or his loose relationship with the truth.
However, it is important not to become inured to his discourtesy and boorish behaviour.
Ahead of touching down in London, Mr Trump fired off social media insults aimed at the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, describing him as a 'stone cold loser' who had done a 'terrible job' in his role, even referencing his height in disparaging terms.
Mr Khan's spokesman said such 'childish insults' should be beneath the President of the United States, however, we know that very little is beneath Mr Trump who seems to revel in public spats with any person or organisation that he disagrees with.
Despite his undiplomatic conduct, which includes offering opinions on internal political matters which are usually off limits, Mr Trump has had the red carpet rolled out for him in London.
He will know that the pomp and ceremony will go down very well with his supporters and will not care about the negative headlines or protests that accompany his visits.
With the president due to arrive in the Republic on Wednesday, anti-Trump protests are planned for both north and south.
We are told he will meet with Leo Varadkar to discuss free trade. We must hope the Taoiseach will take the opportunity to raise other issues of concern, including the threat of climate change.
