Negotiations have advanced regarding the relocation of the antiquities—known as the Elgin Marbles—that were taken from Athens more than 200 years ago and are currently displayed in the British Museum. This was stated by Irini Stamatoudi, a Law Professor at the University of Nicosia and a member of the Advisory Committee on the Parthenon Sculptures. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, she expressed belief that “an agreement is close,” though she is uncertain if it is “close enough.”
The news comes as Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Keir Starmer met for talks at Downing Street, although the British Prime Minister’s Office noted that the issue was not on the agenda. According to the official Downing Street account, the sculptures were not discussed at the start of the meeting. The meeting occurs amid reports that talks have recently progressed regarding an agreement to return the sculptures to Athens.
Stamatoudi also mentioned that the Greek government has proposed a “cultural, strategic partnership,” which would include other antiquities being sent to the British Museum to fill the gallery that would be left empty if the sculptures were returned. She noted that negotiations about what could be sent to the British Museum are “secret” but added that while she is not personally involved in this round of discussions, she believes the items will include “antiquities that capture public attention.”
Speaking to the BBC, the professor highlighted that the return of the Parthenon Sculptures is something “all Greeks are passionate about,” as the antiquities are widely regarded as part of the country’s “cultural heritage.”
Also read: British public favour return of Parthenon sculptures
Source: BBC/Lifo.gr
