Obama called Abbott to thank him for being a 'mate' to the US
9NEWS
Former PM Tony Abbott meeting with US President Barack Obama in the White House. (AAP) AAP
US President Barack Obama has called deposed Prime Minister Tony Abbott to commend him for his "global leadership" in the fight against ISIL in Iraq and Syria.
Mr Obama called Mr Abbott this morning to say he had been a good "mate" on many important issues.
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The news came as Australia announced its first air strike against ISIL in Syria.
The US leader also called Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to congratulate him on his new role, and to start the next chapter in relations between the two countries.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron also spoke to Mr Abbott to wish him well on his next chapter.
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