Greek officials have long campaigned for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures, known as the Elgin Marbles, which are currently housed in the British Museum. Recent discussions saw Greek president Kyriakos Mitsotakis meet UK prime minister Keir Starmer, coinciding with the museum's announcement of constructive negotiations over the marbles. Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni noted that although a deal requires further time and effort, both nations are making progress. Influential figures like Constantine Tassoulas and Amal Clooney have played roles in bolstering the campaign for restitution.
Former UK prime ministers Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak rejected any such move. "The UK has cared for the Elgin marbles for generations," Sunak said in 2023.
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni emphasized that a deal still needed "time and work" but added that both sides had "broken the ice."
British Museum chairman George Osborne mentioned that "at some point, some of the sculptures" could be sent to Greece in return for "treasures" from Athens.
Amal Clooney, wife of actor George Clooney, contributed to raising international awareness about the restitution claim for the Parthenon sculptures.
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