Greece and UK Discuss Return of Elgin Marbles

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to meet with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss the potential return of the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, following several private meetings this year between Greek officials and British Museum representatives. These discussions indicate a possible shift in the longstanding dispute over the artifacts, which have been housed in the British Museum for over 200 years. While former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak opposed their return, Starmer is reportedly more open to negotiation, with a source stating that the government is 'open to whatever is agreed.' The British Museum has expressed interest in a 'Parthenon Partnership,' which could involve a long-term loan, but Greece views the sculptures as its property. The historical context includes claims by Lord Elgin of having obtained permission from Ottoman authorities for their removal, a claim that is contested by Greece and Turkey. The upcoming talks represent a significant moment in the dialogue surrounding one of the world’s most contested cultural treasures.