Washington DC/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a 3-day historic state visit to the US, was given a grand welcome at the White House on Thursday, where he is holding bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden.

PM Modi was welcomed with a 19-gun salute and playing of the national anthems at the south lawns of the White House. Welcoming PM Modi, President Biden said, "We have spent a lot of time together, since I was Vice President... Given the situation of the world, it is essential that India-US work together".

In his address PM Modi, said: "About three decades ago, I came to America as a common man. At that time, I had seen the White House from the outside. After becoming the PM, I've come many times, but today for the first time the doors of the White House have been opened for the Indian-American community in such large numbers."

Thanking President Biden, PM Modi said: "The societies and institutions of both the US and India are based on democratic values. The constitution of both countries begins with the three words -We the People- as President Biden just mentioned. Both countries take pride in their diversity, and both of us believe in the fundamental principle of 'In the interest of all, for the welfare of all."

"India and the US are in the process of eradicating poverty, addressing climate change, extending healthcare and ensuring food security... All this matters for America, for India and for the world... The decisions we make today are going to impact the future," President Biden said. 

After bilateral talks, the Prime Minister will address a joint sitting of the two houses of the US Congress for a second time, which will be followed by dinner at the White House. This second historic joint address is a first for an Indian leader and a rarity for the rest of the world as well.

In a short while from now, President Biden and I will discuss India-US relations and various regional issues. I'm sure that, as always, our conversation today will be very useful and positive. This afternoon, I will also have an opportunity to address the US Congress for the second time. I'm deeply grateful for this honour.

Throughout the day, several big-ticket announcements were made that ranged from defence cooperation to space expeditions, which are expected to deepen the ties between the two nations.