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Visiting Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has met with Nepalese Prime Minister Girjia Prasad Koirala and praised him for helping Nepal establish peace after a decade-long communist insurgency.
Mr. Carter Thursday called the prime minister a hero, saying he has been the focal point around which the peace and future democracy of Nepal has been built.
Mr. Koirala played a prominent role in efforts to end the authoritarian rule of Nepal's King Gyanendra last year. He also worked with the communist rebels to lay down their arms and join the government.
Mr. Carter arrived in Kathmandu Wednesday on a trip to encourage Nepal's political leaders to uphold the country's newfound peace as it prepares for elections later this year.
During his four-day stay, Mr. Carter will also meet with Maoist leader Prachanda.
Mr. Carter will meet the former rebel leader as a private citizen and head of his Atlanta-based Carter Center.
Nepal has invited the Carter Center to observe the election process. It is the only international election observation organization currently in the country.
Some information for this report was provided by AP.
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