"This is a handover, not a restitution, in that these objects have never been part of French public collections," Laurent Serrano, culture advisor at the French Embassy in Ethiopia, stated. This statement highlights how France positions the transfer of the artefacts not as a restitution but as a diplomatic gesture, aiming to clarify the ownership status of the items. His emphasis on the lack of public collection ties suggests a legal distinction influencing France's current approach to heritage disputes.
Barrot also announced a new €7m project called "Sustainable Heritage in Ethiopia" aimed at restoring historic sites, showcasing a commitment to collaborative efforts in cultural preservation. The project indicates a strategic partnership between France and Ethiopia, suggesting a form of cultural diplomacy where financial investments in heritage restoration serve to strengthen bilateral relations, further complicating narratives surrounding artefact restitution and ownership.
The two countries are also co-operating on joint projects such as the renovation of the cave churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Ethiopia," the article notes. This involvement sheds light on bilateral cultural preservation efforts, reflecting the ongoing engagement both nations have in restoring Ethiopia’s historic landmarks while simultaneously navigating the complexities around repatriating artefacts.
The lack of progress since President Emmanuel Macron's announcement in 2017 concerning a potential plan for returning African heritage has left many frustrated. This statement reflects the growing dissatisfaction among various stakeholders regarding the steps taken towards actual restitution of cultural heritage, highlighting the ongoing debates and challenges within the wider context of colonial legacy and reparative justice.
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