Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle today (11 September) issued the following statement on the 9th anniversary of the attacks of 11 September 2001:

“The devastating terrorist attacks were an attack not only on the United States of America. They were an attack on the universal foundations and shared values of freedom of the international community.

It was our belief then as it is now: extremism, terrorism and violence must never have a chance anywhere. That is why we strongly and emphatically condemn ideas of burning the Koran. Doing so has nothing to do with freedom of opinion or religion; it is religious extremism and thus utterly unacceptable in our eyes.

We extend our respect and appreciation to all those who are committed to balance and understanding between religions and cultures.”