Vatican City: Pope Francis expressed on Sunday his hope that the Paris Olympics would lead to truces in global conflicts, urging athletes to be peace ambassadors and role models for youth.
The games, set to begin on July 26 with a grand opening ceremony on the River Seine, will feature around 10,500 athletes and over 100 heads of state and government.
During his weekly address to the crowds in St. Peter’s Square, the pope stated, “According to the ancient tradition, the Olympics will be an opportunity to establish a truce in wars, by demonstrating a sincere desire for peace.”
Also Read | UK Public Sector Workers Could See Pay Hikes Above Inflation, Says Finance Minister
He specifically mentioned conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Myanmar, and other regions, emphasizing, “Let us not forget, war is a defeat.”
Also Read | China Unveils Policy Agenda with Sparse Implementation Details
Last month, the final statement from a Group of Seven (G7) leaders’ meeting held in Italy included a unanimous call for a truce in global conflicts during the Olympic Games.
