Recently there has been considerable discussion about the role that sponsors play as supporters of the upcoming Beijing Olympic Games. Many groups are using the Olympics as a platform to draw attention to their individual concerns and issues. Some are calling on sponsors to take public positions on those issues, which have nothing to do with the Olympic Games — a global convening that is one of the few truly unifying events in our times.

Throughout the Coca-Cola Co.'s 120-year history, we have strived to do all we can to set an example and uphold the highest standards of corporate responsibility. At the same time, it is not the role of the Coca-Cola Co. to involve itself directly in the internal policy decisions of sovereign countries. This is the position we take throughout the world.

We recognize, however, that we have a role to play in the development of the communities where we do business and where our employees live and work. In every part of the world, we operate our business to the same high standards, with specific quality, environmental, workplace and community policies. We can and must be a catalyst for positive change through actions that are appropriate for a business to take.

When faced with situations where our actions can foster meaningful change, we do not remain silent. As one example, we have been actively working with and supporting nongovernmental organizations and United Nations agencies to help address the terrible human suffering in Darfur. Our support began well before the crisis was linked to the Olympics.

We are working with the International Committee of the Red Cross and other partners to support the delivery of relief supplies and provide health care services in field hospitals. We are making $5 million in investments to address the conflict's water issues, providing immediate relief to those on the ground and supporting efforts to bring key parties together to develop long-term solutions.

Our support for the Games and what they represent has never been stronger. As the Olympic Movement's longest continuous corporate partner, we've seen firsthand the positive impact the Olympics has on athletes, host countries and billions of spectators.

We believe in the purposes and objectives of the Games: a venue intended to be free of conflict, a forum for nonpolitical engagement, fair play and celebrating the greatest in individual sporting achievement.

We're proud of our association with the Olympic Games and of our support for the 2008 Beijing Games. Our sponsorship allows more athletes and countries to participate, and as the only corporate sponsor of the Olympic Games, the Paralympics and the Special Olympics, we have contributed to the growth of all of these worthy events.

The Olympic Games remind us that there can be a common ground of understanding between people of different backgrounds. It remains an event open to all nations; a global event where we can celebrate those things that unite us. This rare and vital movement, and the hope of peace it brings through the concept of the Olympic Truce, needs to continue to burn bright and should not be diminished by attacking it.

For 80 years, Coca-Cola has supported the Olympic values of equality, inspiration and fair competition. These values are needed today more than ever.

Thomas G. Mattia is the Coca-Cola Co.'s senior vice president and director of worldwide public affairs and communications.