Washington: With the infamous Salahi couple gatecrashing incident still hogging headlines, US President Barack Obama hosted his second State Dinner in honour of his Mexican counterpart with closer scrutiny of invited guests.
At least one woman was turned away for the lack of proper ID as hundreds had lined up to get in. Obama and first lady Michelle had given their second State Dinner in honour of Mexican counterparts Felipe Calderon and Margarita Zavala.
Obama invited more than 200 guests, including diplomats, White House officials and celebrities, prominent among them were actresses Whoopi Goldberg and Eva Longoria-Parker.
Obama and his Mexican counterpart Felipe Calderon were wearing black ties and tuxes.
Calderon's wife, Margarita Zavala, wore a purple sleeveless dress with an Aztec-inspired collar design made by Macario Jiminez.
The infamous Salahi couple had gatecrashed into the first State Dinner of the US President Barack Obama for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh by dodging secret service on November 24, 2009.
Michelle Obama on the other hand wore a shimmering blue gown with a sparking silver belt made by designer Peter Soronen.
The Marine Band performed "Hail America" composed by George Drumm as the two couples were presented for the photographs. The State Dinner was held in the East Room of the White House.
The East Room had a very romantic atmosphere tonight, with about twenty tables decorated with candles, green and pink bouquets of orchids and linens in three shades of turquoise.
Obama thanked Calderon for hosting him and Michelle on their official visit and said he wanted to return the favour at what he called 'La Casa Blanca'.
Obama described the two countries as neighbours with much in common like "a pretty good soccer team" in a subtle look toward the upcoming World Cup.
"Tonight we share the bonds we share as neighbours and as friends," Obama said. "We celebrate all that Mexican-Americans contribute to the United States.
In his remarks, Calderon hailed a growing relationship and partnership between the two countries.
"Today I have once again seen an example of how much can be achieved by working together on common ideals," Calderon said through an interpreter.