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US president George W. Bush delievers his annual State of the Union address at the Capitol, Washington on Jan. 31, 2006.

    WASHINGTON, Jan. 31 (Xinhuanet) -- U.S. President George W. Bush said in his annual State of the Union address on Tuesday night that the state of the union of the United States is strong.

    "Tonight the state of our union is strong and together we will make it stronger," he said.

    Bush said in his speech, delivered at the U.S. Capitol, that the year 2006 was a "decisive year," in which members of Congress and the administration "will make choices that determine both the future and the character of our country."

    He said the United States would choose to act in pursuing "the enemies of freedom" or retreat from duties in the hope of an easier life, and choose to build prosperity by leading the world economy or shut the country off from trade and opportunity.

    "In a complex and challenging time, the road of isolationism and protectionism may seem broad and inviting, yet it ends in danger and decline," he said.

    The only way to protect the American people, to secure the peace, and to control the nation's destiny was "by our leadership," and so "the United States of America will continue to lead," he said. Enditem