Hillary Clinton slams ?Int?l Burn A Koran Day?

Washington : US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Tuesday slammed a Florida pastor’s plans to burn Korans (Qur’ans) to mark the ninth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks by calling them “disrespectful” and “disgraceful.”

Speaking at an iftar (the evening meal to break the daily fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan), hosted by the Depatment of State here, she lauded American religious leaders who condemned preacher Terry Jones? act.

“I am heartened by the clear, unequivocal condemnation of this disrespectful, disgraceful act, that has come from American religious leaders of all faiths, from evangelical Christians to Jewish rabbis as well as secular US leaders and opinion makers,” she said.

According to reports, an estimated 230 guests, including ambassadors, leaders from non- governmental organizations and young American Muslim leaders, were invited to the iftar.

She called the ?spirit of fellowship and the celebration of goodwill that is a hallmark of Ramadan? the ?real story of Islam in America?.

Clinton also lauded the resumption of talks in the Middle East, between Israel and Palestine, assuring full American backing for the reconciliation process.

?In the weeks and months ahead, President Obama and I will do everything we can to help advance the cause of a comprehensive peace, not only in the Middle East, but across the world,? she said.