Trump Says He Has 'Great Respect' after First Ever Meeting with Obama

WASHINGTON -- Two opposing political worlds collided at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue as President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump engaged in their first ever face-to-face meeting at the Oval Office Thursday. 

Following what turned out to be a cordial encounter, Trump called the president "a good man" and said he looks forward to his counsel. 

The conversation between Obama and Trump signifies the start of Trump's transition into The White House.  The president said he called the meeting to ensure a smooth transition of power. 

"It was wide ranging," Obama told reporters. "We talked about foreign policy. We talked about 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."

"I have been very encouraged by the interest in President- elect Trump's wanting to work with my team around many of the issues," he added. 

Trump echoed similar sentiments. 

"I have great respect. The meeting lasted for almost an hour and a half. As far as I am concerned, it could've gone on a lot longer," Trump told reporters. "I very much look forward to dealing with the president in the future including counsel."

Then, turning to President Obama, he said, "I look forward to being with you many, many more times in the future." 

The meeting ended on a light note, with Obama telling Trump, "Here's a good rule: Don't answer their questions when they start yelling at you," referring the media swarm.  

The quip was met with a smile and laugh from Trump, who then stated, "It's always the 'last one.'"

First lady Michelle Obama and Melania Trump also met Thursday at the White House, while Trump spokeswoman Hope Hicks met with members of the White House staff. 

Trump left the meeting at the White House to head to his second big meeting of the day with House Speaker Paul Ryan.  Ryan and Trump have had a shaky relationship throughout the year. Their meeting is aimed at working through some of the division and unifying the GOP.