When the Olympics were first created in Greece, the then ruling party declared a "truce" to all the countries that would be participating in the Olympic events. The theme was "let them lay down their weapons, if only temporarily, so that humanity can lay claim to gold even before the Games begin". In other words any country having conflicts with others could be assured that going to Greece would not put any competitors and spectators in physical harm. It was only a two week truce preceding and proceding the Games. It demonstrated to the world that peace is possible in even the most difficult situations. The resolution of a "truce" has been called for by the General Assembly of the IOC as people from around the world assend on Beijing for the 2008 Games of the Olympiad. The Olympics are being held from August 8 - 24, and the Paralympic Games run from September 6 - 17 based upon the slogan "One World, One Dream". The intent of the IOC is to fly the UN flag and Olympic Flag at all Olympic / Paralympic competitive sites and promote peace, mutual understanding and goodwill among nations and people.... For those attending the Games in persons enjoy and learn about the other cultures of the world in peace.