US Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama has announced that Joe Biden will be his running mate in November's election.
US Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama has announced that Joe Biden will be his running mate in November's election.
Mr Obama's choice, confirmed on his website, comes ahead of next week's Democratic Party convention.
Mr Obama's choice, confirmed on his website, comes ahead of next week's Democratic Party convention.
Mr Biden, a 65-year-old veteran lawmaker, has three decades of Senate experience and is highly respected on foreign policy issues.
Mr Biden, a 65-year-old veteran lawmaker, has three decades of Senate experience and is highly respected on foreign policy issues.
Republican contender John McCain could announce his choice next week.
Republican contender John McCain could announce his choice next week.
Speculation is mounting that Senator McCain may name his running mate on 29 August, his 72nd birthday, and a day after the Democrats wrap up their convention.
Speculation is mounting that Senator McCain may name his running mate on 29 August, his 72nd birthday, and a day after the Democrats wrap up their convention.
'Impressive record'
The announcement came hours after several US media networks began reporting that Mr Biden had been chosen.
"Joe Biden brings extensive foreign policy experience, an impressive record of collaborating across party lines, and a direct approach to getting the job done," a brief statement on Mr Obama's campaign website said.
The two men are expected to appear together at a rally in Illinois later in the day.
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