United States President Barack Hussein Obama on Sunday arrived in India for a highly anticipated three-day landmark trip during which the two countries will strive to make progress on climate change, defence and economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was at the Air Force Station at Palam to greet the visiting dignitaries. The three shared pleasantries before President Obama sat in his presidential vehicle ‘The Beast’ and left for his hotel ITC Maurya.
Obama, who landed in the overcast capital at around 9:40am (0410 GMT), was accorded a red carpet welcome at the start of a visit which is seen as symbolizing a new warmth in sometimes strained bilateral ties.
As Obama alighted from his Air Force One jet shortly after 9:45 am local time, Modi, donning a prominent red shawl across his beige-coloured Nehru jacked welcomed Obama, wearing a dark suit, with a hug. The two kept clasping hands, chatting and joking like old friends.