Greece and US strengthen cultural heritage cooperation

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni met with U.S. Under Secretary of State for Cultural Affairs Catherine Dillon to discuss strategic cooperation regarding the protection of cultural heritage. The meeting highlighted successful bilateral efforts in combating the illicit trafficking of cultural goods, which have led to the identification and repatriation of ancient Greek artifacts.

Key topics of discussion included the upcoming renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding between Greece and the United States. This agreement focuses on imposing import restrictions on specific categories of Greek archaeological and ethnological materials. The renewal is expected to take place in Athens during the 6th Greece-U.S. Strategic Dialogue.

Additionally, the officials discussed expanding the presence of Greek culture in the United States through museum collaborations, educational programs, and exhibitions. They also emphasized the importance of the Cultural Heritage School, a joint initiative involving the Greek Ministry of Culture, the U.S. Department of State, and ICOM.