This Article is From Nov 08, 2010

Obama greeted with grandeur in India

Obama greeted with grandeur in India
New Delhi: US President Barack Obama heralded the relationship between the United States and India as a "defining partnership" of the 21st century on Monday during a grand ceremony marking his visit to the world's largest democracy.

Obama's limousine was escorted to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the palatial residence of India's president, by guards on horseback. Obama greeted Indian dignitaries, then stood with his hand on his heart as the US national anthem was played.

The president spoke briefly during the ceremony, thanking the Indian people for their hospitality and saying he hoped his trip here would strengthen the friendship between the two nations.

"The partnership between the United States and India will be one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century," Obama said.

The grandeur of the arrival ceremony kicked off a day heavy on diplomacy. Obama was to meet privately with Prime Minister Manmoham Singh, and the two leaders were then to take questions from the press.

Later on Monday, Obama will address the joint session of Parliament, with announcements expected on counterterrorism, regional security, clean energy, climate change and economic growth.
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