Washington (CNN) -- The United States' first couple welcomed their Mexican counterparts Wednesday to the second state dinner of the Obama administration, a night of pomp and ceremony that both leaders hope will demonstrate the important relationship between the North American neighbors. President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, dressed in a flowing blue gown, welcomed Mexican President Felipe Calderon and his wife at the White House steps as a military honor guard saluted and media cameras clicked and whirred. In an unrehearsed moment, a White House aide slipped while walking out with the Obamas before their guests arrived, and both the president and first lady immediately called out, "Don't take that picture," to the media gallery.
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Obama
Obama
@placeholder laced his toast with some playful remarks, mentioning Mexico's contributions to arts and science along with "some very good food, including the food of the gods, chocolate."
Obama
Obama
At another point, @placeholder prompted laughter with a joke aimed at Mexico's passion for soccer, noting the nation had, like the United States, "a pretty good soccer team."
Felipe Calderon
@placeholder thanked his hosts, twice making special reference to the charm of the first lady, and emphasized the friendship and partnership between the two countries.
North American
"We work with the certainty of what is good for the United States of @placeholder is good for Mexico, and if we understand this, at the same time what is good for Mexico is good for the United States," Calderon said.
United States
Wednesday night's dinner was the eighth state dinner honoring Mexico, all since 1967, reflecting the growing importance of the @placeholder southern neighbor in the past half-century.