Mitsotakis and Starmer to Hold Talks in London Today, Spotlight on Trade and Parthenon Sculptures

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and UK Labour leader Keir Starmer are set to meet today in London during Mitsotakis’ official visit to the British capital.

The discussions are expected to focus on defence, trade, and economic cooperation, with a particular emphasis on advancing partnerships in shipping, research and innovation, and tourism.

Renewed Buzz Around the Parthenon Sculptures

The meeting has rekindled speculation about the possible return of the Parthenon Sculptures, a long-standing request from Greece. While both sides have maintained a low-profile approach to the sensitive topic, the atmosphere appears markedly improved compared to the diplomatic tension of November 2023. At that time, then-British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declined to meet Mitsotakis after comments the Greek leader made in an interview, a move widely viewed as an extraordinary breach of protocol.

Positive Developments on the Sculptures

On Monday, The Guardian reported significant progress in negotiations over the sculptures. According to the British newspaper, contacts between the Greek Foreign Ministry and the British Museum have reached an “advanced stage,” with discussions centering on an “agreement in principle.” However, the issue is unlikely to feature prominently in the Mitsotakis-Starmer talks, with sources suggesting the primary focus will remain on broader bilateral cooperation.

The evolving dialogue on the Parthenon Sculptures reflects an improved diplomatic climate and renewed hopes for progress on one of Greece’s most enduring cultural requests.