US President Joe Biden spoke to former President Donald Trump on the phone Wednesday to congratulate him on winning the presidency, the White House said in a statement, ABC News reports.
"President Biden expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and emphasized the importance of working to bring the country together," the White House said.
Biden invited Trump to meet with him at the White House, the statement said.
Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said the meeting "will take place shortly."
"President Joe Biden called President Donald J. Trump to congratulate him on his victory and extended an invitation to the White House to ensure a smooth transition between the current Administration and the incoming Administration. President Trump looks forward to the meeting, which will take place shortly, and very much appreciated the call," Cheung said in a statement.
Biden also spoke to Vice President Kamala Harris on the phone Wednesday to congratulate her on "her historic campaign," the White House said.
Later, following Harris' concession speech to the nation on Wednesday afternoon, Biden released a statement praising Harris, saying she has been a "tremendous partner and public servant full of integrity, courage and character."
