Embedded SQL statements are processed by an embedded SQL (ESQL) preprocessor, which converts the ESQL statements into host language source code statements. The resulting statements are calls to a runtime library that provides the interface to Ingres (host language statements are not altered by the ESQL preprocessor). After the program has been preprocessed, it must be compiled and linked according to the requirements of the host language. For details about compiling and linking an embedded SQL program, see the Embedded SQL Companion Guide.