(Michelle Bergmann / Neon Tommy)

"We are very pleased to see him in Brussels after many years in power. Because sometimes we feel perhaps he is more interested in Asia or South America. So we had a lot of expectations," said Odie Harvey, a European freelance reporter who has been covering the EU Summit for years.

Obama spoke about the Transatlantic Trade and Partnership (TTIP), the Ukraine crisis, and the US-NATO relationship.

"We are more secure, we are more prosperous. The world is more safer and more just when Europe and America stand as one," said President Obama.

According to Brussels reporters, typically 50 reporters show up to the Summit. With Obama as a guest over 300 showed up, some traveling from all over Europe. But a gasp of disappointment echoed across the crowd after the moderator announced there would be only two questions allowed to the press proceeding opening statements. The press conference started 45 minutes late.

"I wish that Obama had been given more time to express himself, because it is what we are coming here for," said Harvey.

Harvey said it was highly symbolic and special for the president to be there with the current crisis in Ukraine.

"It was an exceptional moment," said Harvey, "I don't think I have ever seen so many cameras".

President Obama will be visiting Pope Francis for the first time tomorrow.

Reach Executive Producer Michelle Bergmann here.