In one if his final acts as US President, George Bush will present former Australian prime minister John Howard with America's highest civilian honour, the Medal of Freedom, for his role as a "staunch ally''.

The former British prime minister, Tony Blair, who also provided troops for the "coalition of the willing'' in Iraq is also to be honoured, as is the Colombian President, Alvaro Uribe.

"The President is honoring these leaders for their work to improve the lives of their citizens and for their efforts to promote democracy, human rights and peace abroad,'' said White House spokeswoman Dana Perino.

"All three leaders have been staunch allies of the United States, particularly in combating terrorism. And their efforts to bring hope and freedom to people around the globe have made their nations, America and the world community a safer and more secure world,'' she said.

The medal of freedom has been awarded to domestic and foreign political leaders, distinguished soldiers, civil rights activists, actors and sportsmen.

President Bush has awarded 78 Medals of Freedom, roughly in line with other presidents.

Other world leaders who have received the award include former South African president and apartheid fighter Nelson Mandela, former Hungarian president Vaclav Havel, who led the "so-called ''velvet revolution'' to restore democracy to his nation, and former German chancellor Helmut Kohl.

The medal will be presented by Mr Bush at a ceremony on January 13 at the White House.