US President Barack Obama gave a farewell speech in Chicago, reflecting on his time in office.

“By almost every measure, America is a better, stronger place” than it was eight years ago, Obama said.

He implored Americans of all backgrounds to consider things from each others point of view, saying “we have to pay attention and listen”.

The country’s first black president, now 55, was first elected in 2008 on a message of hope and change.

His successor, President-elect Donald Trump, has vowed to undo some of Obama’s signature policies.

Striking an upbeat tone, Obama said that the peaceful transfer of power between presidents was a “hallmark” of American democracy.

But, he said, “our democracy won’t work without a sense that everyone has economic opportunity”.

BDST: 0923 HRS, JAN 11, 2017
SR