BEIJING, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York on Monday before the presentation of the Olympic Truce draft resolution to the UN General Assembly.
The two leaders discussed the world's current geopolitical situation and its impact on sport, emphasizing the contribution of sport to promoting world peace and noting the importance of political neutrality and sport autonomy.
Guterres praised the IOC's efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting gender equality, health, sustainability, climate protection, and refugees, and expressed confidence in the success of Paris 2024.
"The UN Secretary-General is a great supporter of the Olympic values and the Olympic Games. I would like to thank him very much for his unwavering support for the work of the IOC. We are looking forward to welcoming him in Paris," Bach stated.
According to the IOC, these issues will also be addressed in the Olympic Truce Resolution for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, which will be presented to UN Member States in the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday.
The Olympic Truce - "Ekecheiria" - has a long tradition of ensuring a cessation of all hostilities, allowing athletes and spectators to safely travel to and participate in the Olympic Games.
The Paris Olympic Games will be held from July 26 to August 11, 2024, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024. ■
