Former U.S. President Barack Obama has extended congratulations to Republican Donald Trump following his victory in the U.S. presidential election.

In a joint statement with his wife, Michelle, Obama acknowledged that the outcome was not what they had hoped for, given their significant differences with the Republican platform on various issues.

However, he emphasized the importance of democracy, stating that it involves accepting the reality that one’s perspective will not always prevail and that a peaceful transfer of power is essential.

Obama reflected on the challenges the United States had faced in recent years, including the impact of the historic pandemic and the resulting price hikes. He also mentioned the widespread feeling that many Americans, despite their hard work, are only managing to stay afloat.

These difficult conditions, Obama noted, have contributed to difficulties for democratic leaders globally, and the election result demonstrated that America, too, is not immune to such challenges.