In a statement issued on Saturday, the EU said it joins the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its strong rejection of the burning of a Quran by an individual in Sweden.
This act in no way reflects the opinions of the European Union, said the statement.
Burning the Quran or any other Holy Book is offensive, and disrespectful, and a clear act of provocation, it noted.
Manifestations of racism, xenophobia and related intolerance have no place in Europe, added the statement.
It is even more deplorable that such act was carried out on the important Muslim celebration of Eid al Adha, it said.
The EU continues to stand up for freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, abroad and at home, it further noted.
The statement concluded that “now is the time to stand together for mutual understanding and respect and to prevent any further escalation.”
Earlier on Thursday, spokesman of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said in this regard, “Insulting heavenly scriptures is a manifestation of violence, hatred, and contrary to the fundamental values of human rights,” adding that the Iranian government and nation, like other Muslims and free thinkers around the world, “do not tolerate such insults.”
