The Pope: We hope that the Olympics will provide a truce to conflicts in the world

International
  • 21-07-2024, 18:06
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    Pope Francis, Pope of the Vatican, said on Sunday that he hopes that the Olympic Games in Paris will be an occasion that provides a truce to conflicts in the world, and he urged athletes to be ambassadors of peace and role models for young people.
     
     
    During his weekly sermon to crowds in St. Peter's Square, the Pope said that he hopes that "the Olympic Games, in accordance with ancient traditions, will be an opportunity for a truce in wars, by showing a sincere desire for peace."
    Pope Francis emphasized that “the Olympic Games are by its nature the bearers of peace, not war. In this spirit, in ancient times and with wisdom, a truce was established during the Olympic Games in this turbulent period when world peace is so greatly threatened. I hope that everyone will work to respect this truce, "With the hope of resolving conflicts and returning to peace."
    The Pope mentioned the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Myanmar and other countries, and said: “Let us not forget that war is a defeat.”
    The Olympic Games begin on July 26, with an opening ceremony on the Seine River, with the participation of about 10,500 athletes and more than a hundred leaders of countries and governments.
    Last month, the final communique of the Group of Seven major industrialized nations summit, held in Paris, included a unanimous call for a truce in global conflicts to be declared during the Olympic Games.