Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was welcomed to the United States with a 21-gun salute. Singh is the first state guest of the Obama Presidency.
Speaking on the occassion, US President Barack Obama says India is indispensable to America's future. "It is the story of two economic marvels powered by ideas and innovation." He says the two nations can partner to meet trans-national needs. "We are two global leaders. India must come forward to tackle issues like climate change."
Hailing this as a moment of great opportunity in Indo-US relationships, Singh called for cooperation in combating terrorism and controlling climate change. The Prime Minister said India and the US were bound by values of democracy and their partnership was based on pragmatism. "We seek to broaden strategic partnerships. Both countries must work together to support each other's growth, prosperity," Singh stated.