KABUL (PAN): All coalition forces in Afghanistan would complete training in the proper handling of religious materials, including the Quran, by March 3, the ISAF commander said on Wednesday.

Gen. John R. Allen issued the directive as eight people were killed and 21 others wounded in countrywide protests over alleged burning of the Quran by US troops at the Bagram Airbase. The casualties happened in Parwan, Logar, Nangarhar and Kabul provinces.

“On behalf of the entire International Security Assistance Force, I extend my sincerest apologies to the people of Afghanistan,” said Allen.  “To assist us in ensuring we have uncovered all the facts, I’ve also asked our partners from the Afghan Ministry of Interior to assist us with this investigation.”

In a statement, the top American general in Afghanistan said the training would include the identification of religious materials, their significance, correct handling and storage.

“Along with our apology to the Afghans is our certainty and assurance to them that these kinds of incidents, when they do occur, will be corrected in the fastest and most appropriate manner possible.”

pr/mud