November 24, 2009

President Barack Obama honoured Prime Minister Manmohan Singh with the first state visit of his presidency, and extended an elaborate welcome to him and his wife Gursharan Kaur at the White House on November 24, 2009.

The state visit eased the differences between the two administrations on global warming and the perception over Beijing’s unwanted role in South Asian affairs.

The Indo-US relationship had blossomed under the administration of President George W. Bush who oversaw the civilian nuclear cooperation accord signed into law after years of negotiations between the two democracies.

Having met on a few occasions earlier this year, President Obama and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have developed a personal rapport and President Obama has acknowledged that the US sees its partnership with India as one of the most important relationships which would contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in Asia, and the world. 

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s four day visit to Washington DC was a succession of talks, meetings, press conferences, business events, and addresses – but the most ceremonial day of all was November 24.The daylong extravaganza at the White House began with the Arrival Ceremony in the morning, followed by about two hours of private talks in the Oval Office, and capped by the most anticipated event of the year – the first state dinner of Obama's presidency.

Both occasions were marked by pomp, protocol, ceremony and attention in planning to the last detail.

SALT brings you behind-the scene pictures of the events at the White House, as they unfolded during the course of the day. We are grateful to the White House for providing us these images.

An extensive photo feature in the print edition
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