What's happened
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met to discuss various issues, including migration and the war in Ukraine. Although the return of the Elgin Marbles was not on the official agenda, reports suggest negotiations for their relocation to Greece are progressing.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, negotiations regarding the Elgin Marbles are 'well advanced,' although the issue was not formally discussed during the meeting between Starmer and Mitsotakis. The Independent notes that Starmer's government is more open to a loan arrangement than the previous administration, which had a more rigid stance. BBC News highlights that the Greek government is keen on a 'cultural, strategic partnership' that could facilitate the return of the marbles while allowing for exhibitions in the UK. This evolving dialogue reflects a shift in diplomatic relations, as both leaders aim to strengthen ties amid broader geopolitical challenges.
How we got here
The Elgin Marbles, taken from Greece in the early 19th century, have been a contentious issue between the UK and Greece for decades. Recent political changes in the UK have led to renewed discussions about their potential return.
More on these topics
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Kyriakos Mitsotakis is a Greek politician that is serving as Prime Minister of Greece since 8 July 2019. A member of New Democracy, he has been its president since 2016.
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Rishi Sunak is a British politician who has served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party since 2022.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, known also as Hellas, is a country located in Southeast Europe. Its population is approximately 10.7 million as of 2018; Athens, the nation's capital, is its largest city, followed by Thessaloniki.