US Republican Senator John McCain,a key moderate who has often criticized the policies of old political foe President George W. Bush, on Monday offered a stout defense of Bush's Iraq policy and his leadership.

In a prime-time speech on the opening night of the Republican National Convention, McCain lauded Bush's "determination" and "unflagging resolve" to go to war with Iraq. "President Bush deserves not only our support, but our admiration," McCain said.

The war in Iraq has become one of the most pivotal issues in this year's campaign. The campaign of Democratic candidate Senator John Kerry has attacked Bush for making Iraq a mess by going to war with false justification, and without plan for peace and without support from allies.

The Arizona senator was defeated by Bush in a bitter campaign in 2000 for the Republican nomination. He has since often clashed with Bush over campaign finance, tax-cut and other issues.

A prisoner of war for five years in Vietnam, the well-respected senator has been widely regarded as a moderate who can reach to undecided voters and even Democratic supporters.

"We are Americans first, Americans last, Americans always. Let us argue our differences, but remember we are not enemies, but comrades in a war against a real enemy," McCain said.

McCain refrained from criticizing Kerry in his speech. The two maintain good relationship and Kerry has even inquired whether McCain would join the Democratic ticket as a vice presidential candidate. McCain turned down Kerry's offer.

Source: Xinhua