DHAKA: US President Barack Obama vigorously defended his legacy while striking an optimistic tone for the future his final State of the Union address.

He pushed back against the negative tone of the current presidential race, arguing the US has the "strongest, most durable economy in the world".

His focus was on cementing his legacy rather than unveiling new policies, reports the BBC.

The speech highlighted his team's accomplishments such health reform and rapprochement with Cuba.

"For my final address to this chamber, I don't want to talk just about the next year," he said.

"I want to focus on the next five years, 10 years, and beyond. I want to focus on our future."

Government benefit programmes like Medicare and Social Security should be strengthened, not weakened, he said.

Obama touted his signature health care law and said there must be ways Democrats and Republicans can work together to boost economic security, despite disagreements.

For the current year, he urged Congress to pass legislation on criminal justice reform and prescription drug abuse.

Paid leave and raising the minimum wage were also mentioned as policy objectives, along with making higher education more affordable and improving education.

BDST: 0903 HRS, JAN 13, 2016
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