WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama singles out recent improvements in the economy and says 2014 could be a 'breakthrough year' for the United States.

Obama highlighted reports Friday that the economy grew at a 4.1 percent annual rate from July through September, higher than previously believed.

The economic news, while modest, has been a glimmer of light for Obama in an otherwise difficult year.

Obama also voiced support for proposed legislation that would extend unemployment benefits by three months. The benefits expire later this month for about 1.3 million Americans.

He says jobless assistance should be the first order of business for Congress in January.