Agra (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 23 (ANI): United States Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance and their children, arrived in Agra on Wednesday morning to a warm and ceremonial welcome from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The visit, which included a stop at the iconic Taj Mahal, marked the final leg of Vance's first official trip to India.

Recognised as a state guest, Vice President Vance landed at the Technical Airport of the Agra Air Force Station at 9:15 AM. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received him with traditional Indian hospitality, presenting a bouquet of flowers and greeting the Vice President and his family warmly on the tarmac. The courteous gesture was met with appreciation, as Vance expressed his gratitude before heading to the Taj Mahal with his family.

https://x.com/myogiadityanath/status/1914901811149897956

'A warm welcome to Hon'ble US VP Mr JD Vance, and his family to Uttar Pradesh, the sacred heartland of India, renowned for its timeless devotion, vibrant culture, and spiritual legacy,' CM Yogi Adityanath shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

As the motorcade passed through Agra, the city came alive with patriotic spirit. Schoolchildren waving the national flags of both India and the United States lined the streets, cheering for the dignitary and offering a heartfelt welcome to the visiting family. Their enthusiastic greetings reflected the city's pride in hosting the American Vice President.

In honor of the high-profile visit, Agra was festooned with elaborate decorations stretching from the airport to the historic monument. Vibrant rangolis, intricate sand art, and striking floral designs adorned key junctions, while the roads were flanked by the flags of both nations. Large hoardings and welcome banners added to the visual celebration, symbolising the deepening ties between India and the United States and showcasing Agra's spirit of hospitality.

Security arrangements for the visit were extensive. The 12-kilometre route from the airport to the Taj Mahal via Shilpgram was placed under a heavy security blanket. US security personnel had arrived in Agra three days in advance to coordinate measures with local authorities. During the Vice President's movement, the entire route was designated a zero-traffic zone, ensuring smooth and secure transit.

Vice President Vance's Agra visit concludes a tour that blended diplomatic engagements with cultural experiences, highlighting both the strategic and personal significance of India-US relations. (ANI)