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United States President George W Bush has expressed solidarity with Denmark in the aftermath of the angry controversy in the Islamic world, sparked off by the publication of images of the Prophet Mohammad in a Danish newspaper.
Bush urged governments in the Middle East to take steps to lessen tensions and protect diplomatic premises.
The Danish embassies in Damascus, Syria, and Beirut, Lebanon, were attacked in recent days by angry protestors, dismayed by the publication of the images. Islam prohibits the publication of images of the Prophet.
En route to attend the funeral of Coretta Scott King, Reverend Martin Luther King's widow, on Tuesday, Bush spoke to Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogn Rassmusen from Air Force One, the US presidential aircraft. The two leaders reiterated the importance of tolerance and respect for all faiths as also the freedom of expression. "President Bush expressed support and solidarity with Denmark in the aftermath of the violence against the Danish and other diplomatic facilities. They agreed that the way forward is through dialogue and tolerance, not violence," Scott McClellan, the White House spokesman, told reporters. McClellan stressed that it is the responsibility of all governments -- not just that of the United States -- 'to speak out about the importance of addressing these issues in a peaceful manner, show tolerance and respect for people of all faiths and also show respect for freedom of the press.' "We've publicly called on all governments to take steps to lower the tensions, prevent violence and restore calm," McClellan added.