Omega Watches Ambassador George Clooney Speaks Out

George Clooney, a noted ambassador for Omega watches, has voiced his concern over the issue of China's foreign policy in Sudan, where a five-year conflict has claimed over 200,000 lives and forced millions from their home. It is the actor's wish that Omega speak out against the Chinese military and trade involvement in Sudan, according to the BBC.

Omega is a worldwide partner for the upcoming Olympic Games in Beijing.  The brand, which has been the official Olympic timekeeper since 1932, has expressed their admiration for Clooney's position on the issue.  Nicholas Hayek, who heads the Swatch Group and owns Omega, has emphasized that the brand supports the athletes and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and avoids involvement in political matters and governments.

Hayek told the BBC, "We have indeed discussed this issue with Mr. Clooney..."We have full respect for his strong engagement in the fight for the good cause and share his opinion, especially concerning Darfur, and we are proud to work with a person who has such high ethical views.

"It is our policy not to get involved in politics because it would not serve the cause of the sport which is one most noble human endeavors for creating understanding and peace all over the world."

"This was also the reason that we were present in Moscow during the 1980 Olympics despite the boycott by the western world, and we provided our services to the athletes during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles when the Communist bloc boycotted the Games."

Hayek went on to say that Omega would continue to keep an eye on the situation in Sudan, as well as China's involvement in it.