By SUNIL Sonkar

WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was welcomed with praise on India by US President Barack Obama in an elaborate welcoming ceremony in White House on Tuesday.

Barack Obama said both the countries, United States and India, share “bold experiments” of becoming democracies after colonial power ended. He also added that in modern times US and India have known the pain of international terrorism.

He said, “Our nations are two global leaders, driven not to dominate other nations but to build a future of security and prosperity for all nations.”

The welcome ceremony of Dr. Singh took place indoor of the White House due to chilly and damp weather. Manmohan Singh and Barack Obama stood before the photographers and television cameras in the East Room. The Marine band played national anthems of both the countries.

PM Manmohan Singh said both the countries are separated by distance but they are bound by the common national values of “democracy, pluralism, rule of law and respect for fundamental human freedoms.

Spokesperson of White House, Robert Gibbs said, ” Singh has said he is optimistic about the future of the U.S.-Indian relationship and is looking for a “strategic partnership of global dimensions.”

Both the countries will be working in smoothening over the differences on climate change and U.S. ties with the Indian rivals Pakistan and China.

Barack Obama wants to again establish the strong feelings of goodwill that both the countries enjoyed during the presidency of George W. Bush.

Manmohan Singh started his speech by saying, “Mr President, First Lady Mrs Obama, thank you very much for your warm words of welcome, Mr President. My wife and I are deeply honored to be in your great country on the first state visit of your presidency.

Mr President, I bring to you and the people of the United States of America the friendly greetings of our one billion people of India.”

Snippets
Obama: Broadening ties with India my priority
Obama: India is a rising, responsible global power
Obama: Manmohan a wise leader, I respect him
Obama to visit India next year

PM: India-US defence cooperation progressing well
PM: US must sustain its efforts in Afghanistan