Bush promises smooth transition

U.S President George W.Bush says he instructed his cabinet to ensure a smooth transition to the Obama administration

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MORE INFO: The handover comes as U.S. troops fight two wars, the economy sinks into its worst crisis since the Great Depression and officials urge vigilance against the threat of terrorist attack.

STORY:

U.S President George W. Bush said a smooth transition was a top priority as the White House gets ready for a new President.

At a Rose Garden address to his administrative staff, Bush said economic challenges awaited President-elect Barack Obama who takes office in January.

The handover comes as U.S. troops fight two wars and the economy sinks into its worst crisis since the Great Depression.

SOUNDBITE: U.S President George. W. Bush, saying, (English):

"We face economic challenges that will not pause to let a new president settle in. This will also be America's first wartime presidential transition in four decades. We're in a struggle against violent extremists determined to attack us ."

Bush said he would meet Obama at the White House early next week.

Pavithra George, Reuters