Amid Spreading Conflict, Rising Tensions, Ancient Olympic Truce Still Relevant, Secretary‑General Says in Video Message for Winter Games’ Torch Relay Ceremony

Following is the text of UN Secretary‑General António Guterres’ video message in Olympia, Greece for the torch relay ceremony for the Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea:

It is a pleasure to greet all those gathered in historic Olympia, Greece.

The Olympic Truce is an ancient tradition.  Yet it is just as relevant today.  A pause in armed conflicts creates space to find paths to lasting peace.  We need that today ‑ with conflict spreading and tensions rising.

We have a shared duty to help make the Truce a reality.  Thank you for using the Olympic flame to light the way to peace.