Obama welcomes Indian PM to U.S.

President Barack Obama welcomed Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the United States on Tuesday, emphasizing the similarities between the two countries and pledging to work together to confront global challenges.

The trip comes as Indian officials are reportedly beginning to grumble about perceived slights from Obama. During his trip to Asia, for example, Obama neglected to mention India in a speech about U.S.-Asia relations, raising concerns that the administration favors China as the leading regional power.

But in his remarks this morning, Obama emphasized the strong relationship between America and India.

"This visit reflects the high esteem in which I and the American people hold your wise leadership," Obama told Singh at a joint press conference this morning.

Obama promised to work with Singh to promote economic recovery and confront climate change and nuclear proliferation, among other issues.

The president also emphasized the experiences the two nations share, calling Indians and Americans "two proud people who struggled to break free from an empire and declare their independence."

"It's the story of two economic marvels fueled by an ethic of hard work and innovation," Obama continued. "And today, 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 White House will hold a state dinner tonight for Singh, who is on a four-day trip through the U.S.