Agra, April 23 (UNI) American Vice President JD Vance, along with his family, arrived in Agra on Wednesday amid tight security to visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, marking his first official trip to India.
Recognised as a state guest, Vice President Vance was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who received him at the Technical Airport of Agra Air Force Station.
As Vice President Vance’s special aircraft touched down at 9:15 AM, CM Yogi extended a heartfelt welcome, presenting a bouquet of flowers and greeting Vance and his family with traditional Indian hospitality. The US Vice President expressed his gratitude before proceeding directly to visit the Taj Mahal.
As the motorcade made its way through the city, schoolchildren lined the streets waving the flags of both India and the United States, cheerfully welcoming the dignitary and his family.
For Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Agra, the city was adorned with vibrant decorations stretching from the airport to the Taj Mahal. Roads were lined with the national flags of India and the United States, symbolising the strong bilateral ties.
Colourful rangolis, intricate sand art and eye-catching decorations graced key roundabouts, creating a festive atmosphere. Large hoardings and welcome banners added to the visual grandeur along the entire route, reflecting Agra’s warm reception for the distinguished guest.
Elaborate security arrangements were put in place for the high-profile visit. The 12-km stretch from the airport to the Taj Mahal via Shilpgram was under heavy security cover. US security agencies had been stationed in Agra for three days prior and the entire route was declared a zero-traffic zone during the movement of the Vice President’s convoy.
