Mumbai, Nov 6: US President Barack Obama arrived here today on the first leg of his three-day visit that will seek to focus on opening up of Indian markets for American businesses and deal with wide range of political issues, including strategy on counter-terrorism.
The Air Force One carrying Obama and his wife Michelle touched down at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport here at 12:50 p.m.
Maharashtra's outgoing chief minister Ashok Chavan was the first to welcome the Obamas, as the former gifted Obama a book and a bouquet to Michelle, the First Lady.
Union Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khursheed, the Minister-in-waiting for the US President, then welcomed Obama. Maharashtra deputy chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal was the next to greet the VVIP.
Obama hugged US ambassador to India Timothy Roemer, as the latter kissed Michelle on her cheeks.
The Obamas then left in a US helicopter to INS Shikara, from where they took a carcade to go Taj Heritage Hotel where they will stay. PTI
