Greece introduces Olympics truce resolution into UN General Assembly

Greece introduced the traditional Olympics resolution into the United Nations General Assembly today calling for a truce during next year's summer games in Athens, and Secretary-General Kofi Annan said the measure took on added significance with the event returning to its ancient homeland.

"The truce is as noble as the Games themselves," Mr. Annan said at a reception hosted by the Greek mission to the UN. "It is a chance for warring parties to lay down their arms while athletes from the entire community of nations meet in noble contest."

Mr. Annan said he hoped Member States "will express their resolve that peaceful competition, unmarred by violent conflict anywhere, will mark the Games of the 28th Olympiad. And I pray that States everywhere will heed that call."

The resolution on "Building a Peaceful and Better World through Sport and the Olympic Ideal" is scheduled for adoption in early November and is immediately open to sponsorship by all Member States. The games will be held from 13 to 29 August.