Athens, Greece – The 9th Ministerial Meeting of the Forum of Ancient Civilizations has convened in Athens, drawing culture ministers and high-level delegations from across the globe to discuss critical issues facing cultural heritage. The event, hosted by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, underscores Athens’ role as a pivotal meeting point for international cultural diplomacy.
Minister Mendoni Welcomes Delegations at National Gallery
On December 12, the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, extended a warm welcome to the participating delegations at the National Gallery. The esteemed guests were treated to a guided tour of the gallery by Director General Syrago Tsiara, offering them a glimpse into Greece’s rich artistic heritage. The experience was further enhanced by captivating performances from the Children’s Choir of the National Opera, adding a unique cultural dimension to the inaugural reception.
This gathering follows previous discussions and collaborations, including a strong Greece-U.S. front against illegal trafficking of cultural goods, as highlighted in a meeting between Lina Mendoni and Kimberly Guilfoyle. The Hellenic Ministry of Culture has also been actively involved in projects such as the restoration and reopening of the Roman Odeon of Patras, and Minister Mendoni has reiterated the government’s systematic efforts towards the reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures.
Acropolis Museum Hosts Key Discussions
The core proceedings of the Forum are taking place today at the iconic Acropolis Museum. The meeting sees active participation from a diverse array of member states, represented at a high level. Among the distinguished attendees are the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China, the Minister of Culture of the Italian Republic, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities of the Republic of Iraq.
Further participation includes the Deputy Minister of Culture of the Republic of Cyprus, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, the Director General of Cultural Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, and the Ambassador of the Plurinational State of Bolivia. Additionally, Cyprus, Mexico, and India are actively participating as observer countries, reflecting the broad international interest in the Forum’s objectives.
Addressing Climate Crisis and Illegal Trafficking
The 9th Ministerial Meeting is structured around two critical thematic areas, meticulously set by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture. The first major focus is on the pressing issue of the climate crisis and its profound impact on cultural heritage. Discussions aim to explore strategies and collaborative efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on invaluable historical sites and artifacts.
The second pivotal theme revolves around combating the illegal trafficking of cultural goods. This ongoing challenge poses a significant threat to global cultural heritage, and the Forum seeks to strengthen international cooperation, intelligence sharing, and legal frameworks to curb these illicit activities. The participation of various ministers underscores the collective commitment to safeguarding cultural treasures for future generations.
Athens Declaration to Strengthen International Cooperation
A key outcome anticipated from this meeting is the adoption of the Athens Declaration. This declaration is expected to serve as a landmark document, further solidifying international cooperation for the protection, promotion, and enhancement of global cultural heritage. It will also reaffirm the unwavering commitment of all participating states to fostering dialogue and mutual understanding, recognizing the universal value of cultural heritage as a bridge between nations.
The Forum of Ancient Civilizations continues to be a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and concerted action among nations with rich historical legacies. By addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change and illicit trafficking, and by promoting shared understanding, Athens once again demonstrates its enduring significance as a cradle of civilization and a beacon of cultural diplomacy.
