United States President Barack Obama on Wednesday said he was heartened by president-elect Donald Trump’s victory speech in which the billionaire had said he meant to unite the country. Obama was making his first statements on Trump’s win, which has left the country deeply polarised after a bitter campaign. Obama said, “Now, it is no secret that the president-elect and I have some pretty significant differences. But remember, eight years ago, President [George W] Bush and I had some pretty significant differences.”

Obama has been vocal in his criticism of Trump, variously suggesting that he is not qualified for or capable of serving in the country’s highest office. However on Wednesday, Obama took on a conciliatory tone, saying “Everybody is sad when their side loses an election. But the day after, we have to remember that we’re actually all on one team.” He urged his audience at the White House to remember that they were “patriots first” and not Democrats first or Republicans first.

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Like Trump’s rival Hillary Clinton, Obama also emphasised the importance of certain values in what seemed like a direct challenge to Trump’s campaign, which was dominated by allegations of misogyny, racism and Islamophobia. Obama said the country needs “a sense of unity.” He went on, “A sense of inclusion. A respect for our institutions, our way of life, rule of law, and respect for each other. I hope that he maintains that spirit throughout this transition and I certainly hope that’s how his presidency has a chance to begin.”

Of Clinton, Obama said, “I could not be prouder of her. She has lived an extraordinary life of public service. She was a great first lady, she was an outstanding senator for the state of New York, and she could not have been a better secretary of state.”

Obama is expected to facilitate the transition of power to Trump by January 2, and on Thursday will welcome him at the White House.