Washington rolled out the red carpet for a ceremonial state visit.
President Obama and the First Lady greeted French President Francois Hollande as he arrived at the White House on Tuesday.
The leaders stood side by side for the outdoor ceremony as a military band played the national anthems of each country.
Obama and Hollande took time to greet people who had gathered on the South Lawn before making brief remarks.
SOUNDBITE: U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"Today, on behalf of the American people and Michelle and myself, it is a great honor to welcome my friend, President Hollande and his delegation for their first state visit to the United States; in fact, the first state visit by a French president in nearly 20 years."
SOUNDBITE: FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE, SAYING:
"It's cold in Washington, but it's a beautiful day, a great day for America and France."
The two leaders headed over to the Oval Office for official talks.
