Trump says goodbye to all Americans

Offers ‘best wishes’ to new administration in farewell video

Extending his "best wishes" and praying for the success of the new administration in keeping America safe and prosperous, outgoing US President Donald Trump in his farewell address has said that Americans must unify around their shared values and rise above partisan rancour to forge their common destiny.

In the video farewell message released by the White House on Tuesday, Trump, 74, said he embarked on a mission to make America great again- for all Americans.

"I took on the tough battles, the hardest fights, the most difficult choices because that's what you elected me to do. Your needs were my first and last unyielding focus.

"As I conclude my term as the 45th President of the United States, I stand before you truly proud of what we have achieved together. We did what we came here to doand so much more," he said.

Trump said to serve as the President has been an honour beyond description.

"This week, we inaugurate a new administration and pray for its success in keeping America safe and prosperous. We extend our best wishes, and we also want them to have luck -- a very important word," Trump said on the eve of his departure from the White House for his Mar-a-Lago resort in

Florida.

In his message that lasted a little less than 20 minutes, Trump addressed the storming of the US Capitol by his supporters on January 6, which is considered as one of the darkest days in the history of American democracy and sought unity from his fellow Americans.

"All Americans were horrified by the assault on our Capitol. Political violence is an attack on everything we cherish as Americans. It can never be tolerated. Now, more than ever, we must unify around our shared values and rise above the partisan rancour, and forge our common destiny," Trump said.

Listing out some of the key accomplishments of his administration from January 20, 2017 to January 20, 2021, Trump said it was more than anyone thought possible.

"Nobody thought we could even come close," he said as he referred to the largest package of tax cuts, slapping tariffs on China, achieving energy independence and development of a COVID-19 vaccine in a record short span of time.

"We restored American strength at home and American leadership abroad. The world respects us again. Please don't lose that respect," Trump said, adding that his administration revitalised US alliances and rallied the nations of the world to stand up to China like never before.