Photo Gallery The Merkels and the Obamas
German Chancellor Angela Merkel was in Washington this week to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Afterwards, Obama hosted a state dinner.
Merkel and her husband Joachim Sauer are escorted to dinner by Obama and First Lady Michelle.
Merkel is the first German to receive the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the US, since Chancellor Helmut Kohl in 1999.
The banquet was held outside on the South Lawn of the White House. The vegetables served came from the White House garden.
In a nod to Germany, apple strudel was served for desert.
The two couples standing at the entrance to the White House. It was Merkel's second visit to Washington during Barack Obama's presidency.
Obama and Michelle welcome Merkel and her husband as they step out of their limosine.
During the day on Tuesday, Merkel and Obama met for talks.
The visit began on Monday evening, with a private dinner at the Washington restaurant 1789.
Obama and Merkel greeting children during the official arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House on Tuesday.
Merkel seemed to quite enjoy the attention upon her official arrival.
Such a formal welcoming ceremony is uncommon for heads of government like Merkel. Normally, they are reserved for heads of state.
Merkel amused with First Lady Michelle and the president.
It isn't clear what exactly has gotten US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's funny bone in this Tuesday image.
"Chancellor Merkel, herzlich Willkommen," Obama said in German. "Germany, at the heart of Europe, is one of our strongest allies. And Chancellor Merkel is one of my closest global partners."
Merkel was given an official state welcome complete with a 19-gun salute.
German and US flags were handed out prior to the welcoming ceremony for Merkel.
Merkel taking in the ceremony, which included soldiers dressed in historic, red uniforms.
After the reception for Merkel, the two retreated for official talks on issues such as the European debt crisis and Libya.
Merkel and Obama answering questions during a press conference in the East Room of the White House.
Obama's day was completely devoted to the German chancellor.
The visit was a masterpiece of protocol. Even Merkel losing her footing -- but catching herself -- couldn't ruin a perfect visit.
