George Bush, the US president, has signed a $162 billion bill which will fund war operations in Iraq and Afghanistan beyond the end of his presidency in January.

Bush approved the legislation on Monday, hailing it an example of co-operation between Republicans and Democrats in the run-up to a general election in November.

"This bill shows the American people that even in an election year, Republicans and Democrats can come together to support our troops and their families," Bush said at a White House ceremony.

He praised particular sponsors of the long-delayed measure as part of his thanks to members of both parties in the US congress.

The bill means that congress has so far approved $650bn to be spent on the Iraq war since it began more than five years ago.

Another almost $200bn has been spent on operations in Afghanistan so far, congressional officials say.

"Our nation has no greater responsibility than to support our men in women in uniform - especially because we're at war," Bush said.

College benefits for troops and veterans will be doubled as part of the new funding package.

It also provides for a 13-week extension of unemployment benefits and $2.7bn in emergency flood relief for the US Midwest.