Tim Cook, Robert De Niro, and Hillary Clinton rubbed shoulders at the White House state dinner for Japan — see the night’s best photos

• President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden hosted a state dinner for the prime minister of Japan.
• Cherry blossoms appeared in the White House decor and menu as well as in guests’ outfits.
• High-profile guests included Jeff Bezos, Tim Cook,  Robert De Niro, and the Clintons.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife, Yuko Kishida, to the White House for a state dinner on Wednesday.

The event, featuring cherry blossom-themed decor and high-profile guests, was more than just an excuse to dress up and decorate the White House. The two leaders reaffirmed military and economic partnerships between the US and Japan and announced new technology initiatives related to cybersecurity, sustainability, and artificial intelligence.