LOC20:20
17:20 GMT
JEDDAH, Feb 23 (KUNA) -- Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic
Cooperation (OIC) Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu on Thursday expressed
resentment over the burning of copies of the holy Quran by US forces in Bagram
Air Field in Afghanistan.
In a press statement, Ihsanoglu described the incident as an "unfortunate
induction," calling for state authorities to take full, urgent, and
appropriate disciplining measures against those responsible for this act.
He stressed that such an act is contrary to joint efforts between OIC and
International community, including the US, in fighting racism and induction of
hatred in accordance with religion and belief.
On the other hand, Ihsanoglu welcomed statements by some US officials that
condemned the action and affirmed a thorough investigation to be taken soon
regarding the issue to thwart further similar action.
U.S. officials have repeatedly apologized over the embarrassing incident
which threatens the International Security Assistance Forces efforts to build
trust with Afghanis. Defense Department Secretary Leon Panetta has pledged to
carefully review the final results of an investigation into the matter. (end)
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KUNA 232020 Feb 12NNNN