Clint Eastwood will receive the Motion Picture Association of America's (MPAA) inaugural Jack Valenti Humanitarian Award on Feb 6 in Washington DC.

The award, to be presented annually to an individual in the industry whose work has reached out positively and respectfully to all countries, creeds and cultures, will be presented at a private dinner at the end of the MPAA's The Business of Show Business industry symposium.

'The MPAA is thrilled to recognise as its inaugural recipient Mr Clint Eastwood, who for decades has exemplified the decency and goodness of spirit in his moviemaking,' MPAA chairman and chief executive officer Dan Glickman said.

'His two acclaimed movies about World War Two's infamous battle at Iwo Jima present a remarkable work of looking at both sides of a moment in history, and providing a commentary on its impact in the lives of those who experienced it. These films exemplify the true power of movies to tell human stories and inspire national conversation.'

'To me, this award rises above the ordinary,' former MPAA chief Valenti said. 'My only response is wrapped in humility and a pride wherein any words of mine are insufficient to illuminate what I feel, though it is kind of nice to have an award named after me while I'm still alive. That's cheerfully optimistic.'

'We are pleased to name this award for [Jack], and hope it will provide an annual opportunity to highlight the many men and women in the movie business who exemplifies the spirit of caring and commitment to the dignity of others,' Glickman said.