The Greek Ministry of Culture has announced a new partnership with Palestine to safeguard its cultural heritage. More than 400 Greek Orthodox churches in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip are in urgent need of support and preservation, according to the Palestinian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Hani Al-Hayek. During a working meeting in Athens, Minister Lina Mendoni pledged Greece’s commitment to assist in protecting cultural heritage sites in these conflict-affected areas.

The two ministers signed an Action Plan establishing a framework for cooperation. The plan includes the exchange of expertise and best practices in the protection, conservation, and promotion of cultural heritage. It also covers the creation of educational programs, both in-person and online, and initiatives to safeguard cultural sites and monuments in Palestine.

The plan further outlines strategies for the effective promotion and sustainable use of cultural heritage, the conduct of archaeological research and documentation, and joint efforts to address the impact of climate change on cultural sites, including the restoration of historic landmarks.

Minister Al-Hayek warmly welcomed Mendoni’s proposal for Palestinian conservators and archaeologists to receive training in Greece. These professionals will collaborate with specialists from the Greek Ministry of Culture to gain hands-on experience in cultural heritage preservation.

Both sides also highlighted the vital role of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem in preserving the region’s religious and cultural heritage.