NEW YORK – The further strengthening of cultural relations between Greece and the U.S., the deepening of the cooperation developed with the State Department, as well as the renewal in 2026 of the Memorandum of Understanding for limiting the illegal trafficking of cultural goods, are at the center of the visit that the Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, is making to the United States. Speaking to The National Herald the Minister outlined the current state of Greek-American cultural relations, the joint initiatives underway, and the pivotal contribution of the Greek-American community, while also highlighting the prospects, achievements, and major challenges for Greek culture, both within and beyond Greece’s borders.
The full interview follows:
The National Herald: What is the purpose of your visit to the United States, and what does your schedule include?
Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni: Relations between Greece and the United States are at an exceptionally high level in all sectors. My visit aims to further strengthen our cultural ties, deepen the cooperation we have developed with the State Department, and renew – in 2026 – the U.S.–Greece Memorandum of Understanding on limiting the illegal trafficking of cultural goods, which has yielded excellent results in the repatriation of antiquities. Let me mention just one example: In 2025 alone, 139 antiquities were returned to our homeland from the United States. At the same time, I wanted to be present in Astoria – with the strong presence and participation of the Greek diaspora – at the world premiere of Yiannis Smaragdis’ film dedicated to Greece’s first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias.
TNH: What is the current state of Greek-American cultural relations? Are there new initiatives of creative collaboration underway?
LM: As I mentioned, Greek-American relations are at an excellent level, as evidenced by recent agreements in the energy sector. Culture is part of the U.S.-Greece Strategic Dialogue. The further strengthening of bilateral cultural relations, within the framework of the already strong dynamic that exists, was the core topic of my highly constructive recent working meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to Athens, Kimberly Guilfoyle. We place special emphasis on organizing exhibitions in major American museums and further boosting our collaborations and initiatives in the audiovisual sector.
TNH: What role does the Greek-American community play – whose representatives you are also expected to meet during your visit – in strengthening and expanding U.S.–Greece cultural ties?
LM: The Greek-American community serves as the living, unbroken bridge of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Throughout the historical continuity of U.S.–Greece relations, the Diaspora has been the strong guardian of Greek heritage in America. Through its actions, it ensures the preservation of the language, customs, music, cuisine, and – above all – the spirit of Hellenism. Greek Orthodox communities, educational centers, and cultural associations operate as small ‘Greeces’ throughout the United States. Their contribution goes beyond political and economic boundaries, establishing a deeply rooted cultural understanding and making Greek-American relations lasting, strong, and resilient.
TNH: In your recent meeting with U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle, a central topic was combating the illegal trafficking of cultural goods. How significant is the U.S. supportive stance on this matter?
LM: The meeting with Ambassador Guilfoyle was highly constructive. We affirmed our shared understanding regarding the further strengthening of Greek-American cultural relations. We also discussed the emphasis that must be placed on combating the illegal trafficking of cultural goods, which is directly linked to international terrorism. The relevant Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries has already produced very positive results. Greece leads internationally in initiatives to limit the illegal trade in antiquities and artworks. This is fully recognized by U.S. authorities. Ambassador Guilfoyle expressed complete support for every related initiative.
TNH: In recent years, there has been a broader effort to repatriate archaeological objects to Greece. Regarding the repatriation of the Parthenon Sculptures from the British Museum, where do things currently stand?
LM: Since 2019, the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis has been working systematically and methodically toward the definitive reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures in Athens, at the Acropolis Museum. Over the last six years, we have achieved tangible results: the repatriation of the Fagan fragment, the decision by Pope Francis to permanently return three fragments from the Vatican Museums, and the 2021 UNESCO decision. We have also seen a complete shift in British public opinion, with the majority now supporting the return of Phidias’ sculptures to Athens. We know very well – as the Prime Minister has said – that this is not an easy matter. The negotiations with the British side are challenging, as both sides have clear ‘red lines’. This is why every word used in the discussions carries weight and requires great care. We work methodically, using all tools of cultural diplomacy and responding to every challenge while keeping the political and scholarly communities informed. All arguments put forth by the British side have been thoroughly debunked. This does not mean we are close to a final agreement. It does mean, however, that the work being done is paying off. With a clear strategy and steady method, patience, and persistence, we move forward.
TNH: What do you consider the greatest current challenge for Greek culture?
LM: Our country is internationally recognized as a leading force in culture, thanks to the uniqueness of its cultural heritage. This was highlighted by my participation as Greece’s Minister of Culture at the G7 Culture Ministers’ Summit in Italy. For every country – and especially for Greece, which is itself an expansive archaeological site and a historical palimpsest – culture is a major public social good and a crucial developmental resource. Our greatest challenge is for local communities [in Greece] to enjoy the cultural assets of their regions by incorporating culture into their everyday lives and experiences, while also benefiting from the economic impact of the hundreds of projects and actions implemented by the Ministry of Culture across Greece.
Since 2019, the Ministry has been implementing the largest cultural infrastructure program nationwide: more than 850 projects – with total funding exceeding €1.3 billion – employing around 4,500 workers of all specialties. Recent studies show that investing €1 in cultural projects returns €3.44 over a five-year period. A major challenge for us is the dissemination of Greek culture, abroad – in its full historical continuity – to ever larger audiences. Beyond its enormous cultural heritage, Greece also has a strong contemporary artistic creation inspired by the principles and values of the past. For this reason, we are developing all the tools cultural diplomacy offers, with very positive results. Greece has a systematic and strong presence in all international fora, aiming to promote Greek culture and its values, which played a decisive role in shaping Western civilization.
