(WASHINGTON) — President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met in the Oval Office on Friday to discuss issues of affordability and safety in New York City. The meeting marked a significant moment for both leaders, who have exchanged criticisms in the past. Trump congratulated Mamdani, expressing optimism about his upcoming tenure. "I think you’re going to have hopefully a really great mayor, and the better he does, the happier I am," Trump said. He emphasized that their political differences would not hinder their collaboration. Mamdani described the meeting as productive, focusing on their shared commitment to improving New York City. "It was a productive meeting focused on a place of shared admiration and love, which is New York City and the need to deliver affordability to New Yorkers," he stated. The two leaders appeared cordial, shaking hands and engaging in light conversation after their 25-minute closed-door discussion. Mamdani expressed his intention to work with Trump, particularly on issues related to the cost of living. In the lead-up to the meeting, both men expressed a desire to find common ground. Trump acknowledged that he may have been too harsh on Mamdani during the election cycle, stating, "He’s got a different philosophy. I give him a lot of credit for the run. They did a successful run, and we all know that runs are not easy, but I think we’ll get along fine." Mamdani, who has been critical of Trump’s policies, including immigration enforcement and cuts to government agencies, reiterated his commitment to protecting immigrant rights. During his acceptance speech on election night, he addressed Trump directly, saying, "To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us." Despite their differences, Mamdani expressed hope for collaboration. "I have many disagreements with the president. I intend to make it clear that I will work with him," he said. Mamdani won the mayoral election on a platform focused on affordability, proposing measures such as raising taxes on high earners and providing free childcare. Trump, meanwhile, has positioned himself and the Republican Party as advocates for lowering costs. The meeting comes amid growing concerns about the economy, with both leaders acknowledging the need to address the cost of living for New Yorkers. Mamdani highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that one in four residents lives in poverty. As they move forward, both Trump and Mamdani aim to prioritize the needs of New Yorkers, despite their contrasting political ideologies. "We want to make New York strong," Mamdani said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving their shared goals. Trump concluded the meeting by expressing his support for Mamdani’s leadership, stating, "I want him to do a great job, and we’ll help them do a great job." The meeting signals a potential shift in their relationship as they work together to address the challenges facing New York City.