Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni held a working meeting with her Armenian counterpart, Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, at the National Gallery – Alexandros Soutsos Museum, during Andreasyan’s three-day official visit to Athens.
During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the excellent level of bilateral cultural relations between Greece and Armenia and laid the groundwork for further strengthening these ties through the signing of four key cooperation agreements.
Specifically, the following agreements were signed:
- Memorandum of Understanding to promote overall cooperation in the field of culture.
- Bilateral Agreement on the prevention of illicit trafficking of cultural property.
- Memorandum of Understanding between the Greek Center for Audiovisual Media and Creativity (EKOME) and the Armenian National Cinema Center.
- Memorandum of Understanding between the Thessaloniki Concert Hall and the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra.
These agreements encompass a wide range of collaborations in both cultural heritage and contemporary culture, establishing a solid framework for future exchanges, partnerships, and joint initiatives.
Particular emphasis was given to the shared commitment to combat the illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts. Both sides also stressed the importance of strengthening ties between museums and the relevant archaeological and conservation authorities of the two countries.
Additional discussions included the joint organization of archaeological exhibitions, collaborative efforts in the field of handicrafts—where both nations boast rich traditions—and initiatives to promote intangible cultural heritage through joint actions and educational programs.
Minister Mendoni expressed her gratitude to Armenia for its continued support of Greece in international forums, such as UNESCO, and reiterated Greece’s readiness to support similar Armenian initiatives.
The meeting concluded in a warm and cordial atmosphere, underscoring the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two nations. Following the meeting, the two ministers attended a concert of Baroque and Armenian music by the Ancient Music Ensemble “Tagharan” at the Athens Conservatory.
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