President Obama welcomed Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today at the White House, saying it was “fitting” that India was the first country to be hosted for an official state visit.
Obama said the nations can work together to curb the effects of climate change, end poverty and strive for a world without nuclear weapons. He said they each are “speaking out and standing up for the rights and dignity” that all humans deserve.
Obama thanked Singh for “wise leadership” and said theirs is a “defining partnership.”
“Today our nations are true global leaders to build a future of prosperity and security for all nations,” Obama said.
Singh thanked the president, speaking entirely in English, and said he brings “the friendly greetings of over 1 billion people of India.”
He said the two nations are bound by democracy and respect for fundamental human freedoms. Singh said he wants to work with the United States to meet the challenges facing the world and push growth and prosperity for all.
“This is a moment of great opportunity in our relationship,” he said, closing with: “God bless America.”
