Visitors look at ancient sculptures that comprise some of the Parthenon Sculptures housed at the British Museum in London. [AP]
Twenty nations across all geographic blocs voiced support Wednesday at a UNESCO committee session for reuniting the Parthenon Sculptures with Greece, delivering what Greek officials called a major diplomatic victory.
Egypt, Brazil, Italy, China, Cyprus, Nigeria, Czech Republic, Lebanon, and Turkey all backed Greece’s position.
Turkey’s delegation argued that Lord Elgin lacked authorization for his removals, stating the sultan’s permit – during Ottoman rule of Greece in the early 19th century – cited by Britain simply does not exist.
Britain’s delegation found no allied voices, its legal arguments drawing no support. Greece’s foreign and culture ministries, alongside the Acropolis Museum, were credited with the coordinated effort.
