President Barack Obama has apologised to the Afghan people for the burning of Qur’ans by American troops at a US base.

24.02.2012

In a letter to President Hamid Karzai, Mr Obama expressed his "deep regret" and said the incident earlier this week was a genuine mistake.

"I convey my deep sympathies and ask you and the people to accept my deep apologies," the letter said.

"The error was inadvertent; I assure you that we will take the appropriate steps to avoid any recurrence, to include holding accountable those responsible," it continued.

President Karzai told members of the Afghan parliament that a US officer was responsible for the burning.

But he said it was done out of "ignorance".