President George W. Bush has congratulated US president-elect Barack Obama on winning the election and promised him his complete cooperation.

In a short public address on the steps of the White House, he conceded defeat and said his priority remained the security of the nation:

“The United States government will stay vigilant in meeting its most important responsibility, protecting the American people,” Bush said.

“And the world can be certain this commitment will remain steadfast under our next commander in chief. During this time of transition I will keep the president fully informed on important decisions.”

Obama will be sworn in as the 44th US President on January 20, 2009.

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