Hillary Clinton applauds Gore for Nobel Peace Prize

WASHINGTON, Oct 12 (Reuters) US Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton today applauded Al Gore for winning the Nobel Peace Prize in a splash congratulatory note on her Web site.

''Congratulations! Congratulations to Al Gore for his well-deserved Nobel Peace Prize,'' www.hillaryclinton.com said in a message alongside a large picture of Gore.

''His dedication and tireless work have been instrumental in raising international awareness about global warming.'' Aides to the senator from New York and former first lady said she would make a more detailed statement about Gore later in the day.

Gore, the former vice president under Bill Clinton, lost a Florida vote recount battle in the 2000 presidential election to Republican George W Bush.

In the months leading up to the 2000 election, Gore distanced himself from President Clinton. Friends say he has good relations with Sen. Clinton and admires her.

Gore has attracted growing support in recent days from thousands of Democratic activists who want him to enter the 2008 presidential race, which Hillary Clinton is currently dominating.

REUTERS PD RK1930