The first meeting between U.S. President Barack Obama and president-elect Donald Trump went well, according to both men who appeared cordial and respectful of one another in front of cameras.
Obama told reporters at the White House Thursday, that he had an “excellent conversation” with Trump, during which they discussed organizational issues, as well as foreign and domestic policy.
“As I said last night, my number one priority in the coming two months is to try to facilitate a transition that ensures our president-elect is successful,” Obama said, adding that he’s “encouraged” by Trump’s willingness to work with his team.
Obama, who has called Trump unfit for presidency during the bitter election campaign, stressed that it’s important for the country to “come together.”
Turning to Trump, he said: “Most of all, I want to emphasize to you, Mr. president-elect, that we now are going to want to do everything we can to help you succeed because if you succeed, then the country succeeds.”
Trump, who for years falsely suggested that Obama was not born in the United States and even demanded to see the president’s birth certificate, sounded equally gracious.
What was supposed to be a short meeting lasted for an hour and a half, Trump said. He said he and Obama had never met before Thursday.
“We discussed a lot of different situations, some wonderful, and some difficulties. I very much look forward to dealing with the president in the future,” Trump said.
“Mr. President, it was a great honour being with you and I look forward to being with you many, many more times in the future,” he said before shaking Obama’s hand.
