President and First Lady meet Royal newlyweds

It is the President’s first state visit to the UK, which he used to strengthen ties with Britain and renew a friendship with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

The Obamas formed a strong bond with the Royal couple following their visit during the G20 summit two years ago when, after a photocall for leaders, the monarch and Mrs Obama were seen putting their arms around each other’s backs.

Last night the President paid tribute to the “extraordinary service” the Queen has given to Britain and the world during her lifetime.

In an address at a state banquet held in his honour the US leader also highlighted the unique bonds that his homeland shares with Britain.

He told the guests: “As we approach the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I’m particular grateful for the solidarity that the United Kingdom has shown to America over the past decade.

“From that day to this you have been our closest partner in the struggle to protect our people from terrorism attacks and violent extremism from around the world despite very heavy sacrifices here.

“And allow me to pay tribute to the contributions of your military forces who have stood shoulder to shoulder with us for decades.”

A motorcade of 19 cars and coaches, including a London ambulance, escorted the President in his armoured cadillac, known as The Beast, around the capital where thousands of well-wishers gathered on the streets.

Today will be devoted to politics, with talks between Mr Obama and Prime Minister David Cameron, followed by an address to both Houses of Parliament, in which the President is expected to say that the US has no closer ally in the world than Britain.