How newspapers across the world reacted to proposed Koran burning stunt

"Those Western states who arrogantly claim to be tolerant, 'liberal' (whatever that means) and 'secular' are in reality as beset by these flaws as those they accuse in this context... Now the ultimate sign of hatred and bigotry is being undertaken by a church in Florida where Pastor Jones of the Dove World Outreach Centre has decided to mark the ninth anniversary of 9/11 as International Burn a Koran Day to be commemorated by the burning of the Holy Koran."

- The Nation, Pakistan

"IT'S interesting to note that Jones claims he has a right to burn the copies of the Koran, but the Gainesville Police Department has announced it will limit newspaper, radio and television coverage at the Dove World Outreach Centre. It's interesting how an announcement by the head of a small group in a small Florida town can cause such a flap around the world. Some observers suggest that the US media's wide coverage of Jones' plans simply stoked the fire and provided him with undesired notoriety."

- Arab News

"ON September 11, 2001, radical Islamic terrorists committed the most deadly and destructive foreign attack on US soil. Nine years later, the American people are being told that the country overreacted to the whole thing.

President Obama last year declared September 11 is to be a 'national day of service.' Others in the administration seem to think that means it is a day upon which Americans should rise up to protect the Koran."

- The Washington Times

"THE pastor advocates burning the Koran on September 11. Many have mailed Korans to be burned. They dub Islam the 'religion of the devil' and the Koran 'the book of terror'.

"On the other hand, Jewish, Christian, and interfaith forums demonstrate their support for Muslims struggling for recognition and acceptance in American society. Many are simply ignoring the invitation. Others feel insulted by such a senseless plan."

- The Jakarta Post