DHAKA: President Barack Obama has awarded an emotional and surprised Joe Biden the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest US civilian honor.

Obama praised his vice-president for his “faith in your fellow Americans, for your love of country and your lifetime of service”.

The award comes as both men prepare to leave office when Donald Trump is inaugurated on 20 January.

Biden has said he plans to stay active in Democratic Party politics, reports the BBC.

A visibly emotional Biden stood by as Obama heaped praise on what he called the “best possible choice, not just for me, but for the American people”.

The medal was awarded with distinction, an additional honour that has been reserved in recent administrations for just a handful of recipients, including Pope John Paul II.

Obama joked that the internet would have one last chance to mock the pair’s ‘bromance’.

Biden said he was “part of the journey of a remarkable man who did remarkable things”.

The vice-president, who attended with his wife Jill, said that he had had no idea the award was coming.

“I had no inkling,” he said.

"Mr President, I an indebted to you. I am indebted to your friendship. I am indebted to your family.”

BDST: 1710 HRS, JAN 13, 2017
BD