In a crucial move to strengthen ties between Greece and the United States in the areas of culture and heritage, Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and United States Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, Lee Satterfield, convened a high-level meeting in Washington. The agenda included a range of topics, from protecting cultural heritage against climate change to combating illegal trafficking in antiquities.
Building bridges through cultural workshops
Leaders reviewed the results of the 2nd workshop on protecting cultural heritage from the impacts of climate change. This event, a collaborative effort involving various organizations from Greece and the United States, brought together experts from 11 countries. Inspired by the success of this workshop and the Greek-American agreement on cultural property signed in 2021, Mendoni launched an original idea for a new workshop. She proposed focusing on combating illegal trafficking of antiquities and works of art and suggested the involvement of Balkan countries. The Greek ministry, in collaboration with American entities, would spearhead the organization.
Diplomacy and cultural initiatives of Greece
Satterfield praised Greece’s leading role in cultural diplomacy in the Balkans and praised Mendoni’s initiative. A key element of their dialogue focused on the progress of the construction of the Thessaloniki Holocaust Museum, the merger of the Hellenic Cinematographic Center with EKOME and the creation of a film school. The meeting also explored the potential for US support through the provision of experts and trainers to these projects.
Deepen cooperation between museums and cultural exchanges
Furthermore, the meeting discussed possibilities for enhanced cooperation between Greek and American museums, including the prospect of upcoming exhibitions and tours to the United States. Satterfield took to his social media account to express his appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with Greece in the field of cultural heritage and the arts. .
