Obama asks for Biden's assistance

WASHINGTON, May 30 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr., D-Del., said Democratic presidential nominee hopeful Sen. Barack Obama wants him to become "deeply involved" in his campaign.

Obama's move to ask for the Delaware senator's assistance is seen by many as a sign he is aiming to improve his credentials on foreign policy, The Washington Times reported Friday.

"He has asked me to play a more prominent role -- not in an administration, in the campaign -- meaning I would be more available, would I travel with him occasionally, and I said once he gets the nomination, if he gets the nomination, then I'll do whatever he wants," Biden, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said.

Obama spokesman Bill Burto spoke highly of Biden to reporters.

"His expertise would of course be important to any Democratic nominee," he said, adding that the Illinois senator maintains a "deep respect" for Biden's actions and "deep knowledge."