U.S. President Obama Addresses British Parliament

It's a historic visit, the first time a U.S. President has addressed both houses of the British parliament.

Speaking at the centuries old Westminster Hall, Obama said he is in good company.

[President Barack Obama, U.S, President]: 

"I am told that the last 3 speakers here have been the Pope, Her Majesty the Queen and Nelson Mandela which is either a very high bar, or the beginning of a very funny joke."

He also underscored the need to support reform in North Africa and the Middle East.

[President Barack Obama, U.S, President]: 

"And now we must show that we will back up those words with deeds. That means investing in the future of those nations that transition to democracy starting with Tunisia and Egypt by deepening ties with trade and commerce by helping them demonstrate the freedom brings prosperity. And that means standing up for universal rights by sanctioning those who pursue oppression by strengthening civil society by supporting the rights of minorities."

The speech is supposed to anchor Obama's four-nation European tour.