Pope Benedict XVI has said he hopes the London Olympics will help promote peace and reconciliation in the world.

Pope Benedict said the Games, which kick off on Friday, carry a "strong symbolic value" in bringing athletes from around the world together.

Speaking today during his traditional blessing, Pope Benedict said he hopes the UN's call for a truce in all countries during the Olympics will promote peace and reconciliation around the world during the sporting event.

The Vatican has recently launched a new sporting office as a sign of its interest in infusing the sporting world with Christian values.

Pope Benedict spoke from the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome.

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