IOC chief Bach highlights values of sports in divided world

PARIS, July 22 (Xinhua) — At a time when the world order is deeply troubling, the Olympic values of solidarity, equality and human dignity for all have never been more important.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach made these remarks when addressing the opening ceremony of the IOC 142nd session on Monday night.
“We are witnessing a new world order in the making,” said Bach.
He noted that historic disruptions, featured with trends such as decoupling of economies, beggar-thy-neighbor and narrow self-interests trumping the rule of law, are upending the system of international relations that has been in place since World War II and multilateralism is on the backfoot.
“In this new world order, ‘cooperation’ and ‘compromise’ are sadly considered disparaging terms.
“These trends are deeply disturbing to us because they are going straight against our mission to unite. Grounded in and united by our Olympic values – we must be ready to face this sea-change,” he added.
Despite the tough challenges, the IOC chief has maintained a positive mindset.
“We are prepared because we are not only multilateral – we are global. The Olympic Movement is a global movement. In the Olympic Movement, we are all equal.
“We have 206 National (or regional) Olympic Committees that all enjoy equal rights under the Olympic Charter. What is more, we are living in solidarity with each other. Solidarity – this core value defines our Olympic community,” he said.
The 142nd IOC Session will be held from July 22 to July 24 and on August 10 in Paris, France. ■