OTTAWA — Canada's top general insists Canadian trainers in Afghanistan are on the "same footing" as they were before burned Qur'ans were found at a NATO base north of Kabul, which prompted violent riots and deadly attacks on NATO troops.

The burned Muslim holy books were found Tuesday. The attacks have reportedly killed two American soldiers and more than 20 others.

Muslims consider the Qur'an to be the word of God and desecration of the book is considered one of the worst forms of sacrilege.

Gen. Walter Natynczyk, Canada's chief of defence staff, says the recent attacks haven't raised the level of anxiety for Canadian Forces members on the ground in the war-torn country.

"We are vigilant as ever," Natynczyk said. "Even before this very, very unfortunate situation that has occurred recently, our people — very vigilant. The reports that I have received is that we are on the same footing as before."

U.S. President Barack Obama sent a letter to Afghan President Hamid Karzai to apologize for what he called an "inadvertent" burning of the Qur'an, but angry Afghans continue to protest in the streets.

Natynczyk insists there have always been risks associated with Canada's work in Afghanistan.

"At all times inside Afghanistan we have to be very vigilant. At the same time, I have great confidence in the training and the capability of our men and women so that they do protect themselves and at the same time contribute to the Afghan army and the Afghan police."

— With files from Reuters

Kristy.Kirkup@sunmedia.ca

On Twitter: @kkirkup