New York:
US President Barack Obama will participate in a wreath laying ceremony at the Ground Zero in New York today to mark the killing of Osama bin Laden, the mastermind of 9/11 terror attacks, the White House announced on Wednesday.
"The President thinks it's entirely fitting and appropriate to visit the site of Ground Zero in the wake of this significant and cathartic moment for the American people. He wants to honor the spirit of unity in America that we all felt in the wake of that terrible attack," the White House said.
After the ceremony, the US President will also meet with the families of the victims of September 11 attacks by Al Qaeda in 2001.
"Following the ceremony, the President will meet privately with 9/11 family members. During the trip, the President will also meet with first responders," the White House said.
He will spend about three hours at Ground Zero.
There will be additional security near Ground Zero for Obama's visit and security personal could be seen patrolling the area on Wednesday. New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the city always heightened security after major events.
Some visitors to Ground Zero said on Wednesday they thought Obama's visit was a good idea.
"I think it is his way of getting close to the situation being with everyone here, Ground Zero, where it happened, where the emotions are probably still running the rawest because it is where it occurred. I think it is a good idea," said Jim Corrigan, a tourist from Ohio.
Obama had invited former President George W. Bush to accompany him, but Bush declined.
(With Inputs from PTI, AP)