Obama: Well, I just had the opportunity to have an excellent conversation with President-elect Trump. It was comprehensive. We talked about some of the organizational issues involving the structuring of the White House. We discussed foreign policy. We talked about domestic policy. And, as I said, my number one priority in the next two months is to try to facilitate a transition that ensures our president-elect is successful.
And I am motivated by what I believe to be President-elect Trump’s interest in wanting to work with my team on various issues that this great country faces. And I believe it is important for all of us, regardless of party and regardless of political preferences, to come together now, to work together, to address the many challenges we face.
And in the meantime, Michelle had the chance to meet with the future First Lady. And we had an excellent conversation with her as well and want to ensure that they feel welcome as they prepare to make this entire transition.
More than anything, I want to emphasize, Mr. President-elect, that we will want to do everything in our power to help you succeed – because if you succeed, the country will thrive.
Trump: Well, thank you very much, President Obama. This was a meeting that was supposed to last 10 to 15 minutes perhaps, and we were just going to get to know each other. We had never met before. I have great respect. The meeting lasted almost an hour and a half. And it could have lasted, in my opinion, much longer.
We really – we discussed various different situations, some wonderful and some difficult. I look forward to the chance to deal with the president in the future, including seeking his counsel, as he explained some of the difficulties, some of the ambitious resources, and some of the great things that have been achieved.
So, Mr. President, it was a great honor to be with you and I hope to see you many, many times in the future.