Obama and Hollande open lavish state visit

WASHINGTON (AP) — Lauding the "enduring alliance" between the United States and France, President Barack Obama today welcomed President Francois Hollande to the White House for a lavish state visit.

The highly anticipated trip is taking place amid swirling speculation on both sides of the Atlantic about problems in Hollande's personal life.

On a cold February morning, Obama, first lady Michelle Obama and a military honor guard welcomed Hollande as he arrived on the South Lawn of the White House. The two leaders shook hands before a cheering crowd, many waving American and French flags, and greeted two American military veterans who served in France during World War II.

Obama and Hollande both highlighted the long-standing ties between their nations and the key role they have played in shaping their respective histories.

"We stand here because of each other," Obama said. "We owe our freedom to each other."

Hollande, alternating between French and English, echoed those comments, saying "Each of our countries knows what it owes to each other — its freedom."