Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has reiterated Greece's longstanding demand for the reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures during a meeting with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in Athens.
The two ministers also discussed the need for NATO allies to strengthen their defense capabilities.
In remarks after the talks, Gerapetritis described the reunification of the Parthenon Marbles as a "fair and unique global request" that underscores the monument's universal value.
The discussions additionally covered tourism, enhanced cultural cooperation, and regional and international developments. Gerapetritis highlighted that Cooper's visit—the first by a UK foreign secretary in eight years—reflects the robust historical, political, and economic ties between Greece and the United Kingdom.
Cooper emphasized the deep historic bonds between the nations, calling her trip a demonstration of the UK's appreciation for bilateral cooperation. She pointed to shared interests, including migration, and praised Greece's efforts in reducing illegal entries.
She also reaffirmed the UK's strong support for Ukraine against Russian aggression, urging greater pressure on Moscow for a just peace.
The Parthenon Sculptures, removed from the Acropolis in the early 19th century and now housed in the British Museum, continue to be a focal point of cultural and diplomatic debate.
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