Official statements from the British Museum or announcements in major news outlets

Advanced Talks Over Parthenon Sculptures' Return to Greece Amid UK Public Support

Dec 3, 2024, 10:56 AM

Discussions regarding the potential return of the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, to Greece have reportedly reached an advanced stage. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street on December 3, 2024, to discuss various bilateral issues, including the sculptures. While Downing Street stated that the return of the sculptures was not officially on the agenda, Greek government sources indicated that the matter was raised during the meeting. Former Greek officials and experts have suggested that a deal for the sculptures' return is close, with negotiations involving the British Museum's chair, George Osborne, and the Greek foreign ministry progressing. Reports from the BBC suggest that if the British Museum agrees to return the sculptures, the UK government would not obstruct the decision. Public opinion in the UK, as indicated by a recent poll, appears to support the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece.