LONDON (AFP) — Box-office favourite George Clooney is stepping up the pressure on one of the main Olympic sponsors to take a stand over China's foreign policy, the BBC reported on Tuesday.
A longtime critic of China's role in the Darfur crisis in Sudan, Clooney advertises Omega Watches, one of the worldwide partners for Beijing 2008.
"I have talked with Omega (about China) for over a year and will continue to talk to Omega," the Hollywood superstar told BBC Sport.
"I have and will go to the places I and China do business and ask for help."
Clooney's intervention follows the decision of US film director Steven Spielberg to withdraw as an artistic adviser to the Beijing Games in protest at the situation in Darfur.
In a statement issued to BBC Sport, Clooney added: "Last year I took Olympic athletes Joey Cheek and Tegla Loroupe to Beijing to meet with the heads of the Chinese government.
"I have and will continue to ask China to use its considerable leverage with the government of Sudan."
Omega Watches is one of 12 "worldwide Olympic partners" for Beijing and has been the official timekeeper for every Olympics since 1932.
The company lists Clooney - an award-winning actor, director, producer and screenwriter - as an "ambassador" for its brand on its official website.
Clooney's comments were confirmed by Nick Hayek, the chief executive of the Swatch Group which owns Omega.
He told BBC Sport: "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 endeavours for creating understanding and peace all over the world."
Hayek also confirmed that Omega will continue to monitor the situation in Darfur and China's involvement.
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