WASHINGTON (AP) -- House Speaker John Boehner (BAY'-nur) has invited President Barack Obama to deliver the State of the Union speech on Feb. 12.

In a letter sent Friday, Boehner says the country faces immense challenges, and Americans expect the Congress and White House to work together on solutions. Boehner says cooperation will require, quote, a "willingness to seek common ground as well as presidential leadership."

The Ohio Republican says the president can present his plan and specific solutions at a joint session of Congress in the House chamber.

Last year, Obama delivered the State of the Union speech on Jan. 24.