Australia, which contributed 2,000 combat troops to the war in Iraq, "has stood as a strong ally and close friend on the major security challenges we face to today," said Bush spokesman Ari Fleischer.

"The president looks forward to extensive consultations and discussions with Prime Minister Howard about how to rebuild a liberated Iraq, ensuring the elimination of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction" and bolstering global trade, said Fleischer.

SPACE.WIRE