“We don’t care if they follow ours. That is the distinction.”
Then caring is proof that they judge themselves superior. Which is a fine reason not to indulge them. Especially since they often need things from us. Money, defense, etc.
But “royalty” expects to be treated that way.
It cuts both ways. What if one day you find yourself needing something from them? That’s the point.
If my statement is true it doesn’t mean they are superior. It just means that they expect decorum to be followed. At least when the pictures are taken.