UN calls for truce during Beijing Games, IOC President to meet Chinese tennis player during games
The United Nations is calling on all parties to observe a ceasefire during the course of the upcoming Beijing Olympics and Paralympics.
The UN General Assembly adopted a truce resolution for the Beijing Games in December. It was co-sponsored by 173 member states.
It called for the observance of a truce beginning on Friday, seven days before the start of the Olympics, and ending on March 20, seven days after the end of the Paralympics.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a statement on Monday. He said, “With conflict spreading and tensions rising, this appeal represents a chance to overcome differences and find paths towards lasting peace.”
He also said, “Through the power of sports and the Olympic ideal, let us build a culture of peace.”
Meanwhile,the International Olympic Committee says its president Thomas Bach plans to meet Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai during the Beijing Winter Olympics next month.
Peng dropped out of public view in November after posting a message on social media alleging former Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli sexually assaulted her.
The IOC reported having video calls with Peng in November and December. It said in November that it confirmed her safety and that she and Bach promised to meet before the Games.
It added that she said she was looking forward to the Games and wanted to cheer on the Chinese team from close by. It also said she was looking forward to seeing Bach.
The IOC said Bach and Peng plan to meet inside the “bubble” separating Games-related personnel from the public to prevent the spreading of the coronavirus.
