Bush to Obama: expect 'complete cooperation'

[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/11/05/art.bush.9.5.jpg caption="President Bush said Wednesday President-elect Barack Obama can count on 'complete cooperation'."]
WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Bush said Wednesday that President-elect Barack Obama can count on "complete cooperation" as he makes the transition to the White House.

"During this time of transition, I will keep the president-elect fully informed on important decisions," Bush said, speaking in a brief address in the Rose Garden. He did not take questions.

He said he had spoken to Obama and congratulated him and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. Bush said he had also called Obama's opponent, Sen. John McCain.

"I congratulated him on a determined campaign that he and Gov. (Sarah) Palin ran," the president said.

All Americans can be proud of Tuesday's election, Bush said. "Across the country, citizens voted in large numbers," he said. "They showed a watching world the vitality of America's democracy and the strides we have made toward a more perfect union."

He added, "It will be a stirring sight to watch President Obama, his wife, Michelle, and their beautiful girls step through the doors of the White House.

"I know millions of Americans will be overcome with pride at this inspiring moment that so many have waited for for so long."