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 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. 

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. 

Obama Picks Biden As Running Mate