Former US President Jimmy Carter has cancelled his visit to Nepal in view of the existing political turmoil here.

The former US President’s four-day Nepal tour scheduled to begin from May 3 has been cancelled at the recommendation of the US embassy, news reports said today.

Carter’s visit was deemed highly important in the context of current political crisis in Nepal as was scheduled to meet the King and the leaders of the opposition political leaders.

He was scheduled to go on a trip to the mountainous district of Mustang.

Citing continuous curfews and general strike, the US embassy last week announced to close down its consular office and the American Library in Kathmandu and authorised its mission personnel for voluntary departure from Nepal.

Lamenting the recent government crackdown on pro-democracy movement of the seven-party alliance, the US has urged the King to reach out to the parties and return to democratic exercise.

US military assistance to Nepal has been suspended since February 1, 2005, when the King assumed direct power. nepalnews.com mk Apr 16 06