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  1. ITV Report

Obama's handover letter to Trump revealed

Obama on his last day as US President before he handed over the baton to Trump. Credit: AP

The contents of the private letter Barack Obama wrote to Donald trump during his final moments in the Oval Office have been revealed.

The handwritten note, which was addressed to 'Mr.President,' was given to Mr Trump on his Inauguration Day on January 20.

Mr Obama shared some of his concerns before handing over the presidency after eight years in power.

In the letter, published on Sunday by CNN, Mr Obama praised President Donald Trump, saying: "Congratulations on a remarkable run.

"Millions have placed their hopes in you, and all of us, regardless of party, should hope for expanded prosperity and security during your tenure."

He went on to urge Mr Trump to "build more ladders of success for every child and family," to "sustain the international order" and to protect "democratic institutions and traditions".

Mr Obama wrote: "We are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions - like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties - that our forebears fought and bled for."

As a final note, he told the new president to "take time for friends and family", adding: "They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches."

The incoming and outgoing president with their wives, Melania Trump and Michelle Obama. Credit: AP

It is customary for presidents to leave notes for their successors, but typically these missives do not come to light so quickly.

The hand-off letters from George W. Bush in 2009 and Bill Clinton in 2001 were revealed earlier this year.

CNN reports it received the Obama letter from "someone Trump showed it to".

After taking office, Mr Trump praised the note from Mr Obama, calling it a "beautiful letter" in an interview with ABC. Mr Trump added that he called Mr Obama to thank him for the note.

The White House declined to comment, as did a spokesman for Mr Obama.

  • The letter in full

Congratulations on a remarkable run.

Millions have placed their hopes in you, and all of us, regardless of party, should hope for expanded prosperity and security during your tenure.

This is a unique office, without a clear blueprint for success, so I don't know any advice from me will be particularly helpful. Still, let me offer a First, we've both been blessed, in different ways, with great good fortune.

Not everyone is so lucky. It's up to us to do everything we can (to) build more ladders of success for every child and family that's willing to work hard.

Second, American leadership in this world really is indispensable.

It's up to us, through action and example, to sustain the international order that's expanded steadily since the end of the Cold War, and upon which our own wealth and safety depend.

Third, we are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions -- like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties -- that our forebears fought and bled for.

Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them.

And finally, take time, in the rush of events and responsibilities, for friends and family. They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches.

Michelle and I wish you and Melania the very best as you embark on this great adventure, and know that we stand ready to help in any ways which we can.

Good luck and Godspeed, BO

– Barack Obama