Karzai calls for calm over Koran burning

Afghan President Hamid Karzai has expressed his understanding of nationwide protests against the burning of the Muslim holy book by US troops. He renewed his calls for calm.Clashes between protestors and police have left 29 people dead and nearly 200 wounded.

Karzai held a news conference in the capital Kabul on Sunday. He said the emotions of Afghan people over the burned Korans are understandable.But he urged Afghans not to align themselves with the Taliban, which is calling for attacks on the US military. He said remaining calm will help stop enemies of Afghan peace and stability from taking advantage of the situation.

A Taliban spokesman claimed responsibility for Saturday's killing of 2 US military officers at the Afghan Interior Ministry, saying the murders were in retaliation for the Koran burning.The ministry is searching for one of its employees as a possible perpetrator.
The incident prompted NATO forces to recall all their officers and troops working as advisers from Afghan ministries for their safety.Media agencies