The chairman of the British Museum, George Osborne, expressed optimism about the prospect of an agreement with Greece over the return of the Parthenon Sculptures, stressing that Athens’ demands are entirely understandable.

“I’ve always said this is the most difficult issue the Museum has faced in two centuries. So you have to show some humility when you walk in and claim you’re going to solve it. But I remain quite optimistic,” he said.

Osborne noted that the matter requires an open-minded approach, adding that if a deal is reached, a number of significant objects could be loaned to the British Museum.

“If everyone approaches this with an open mind, there is a landing zone that meets the entirely understandable requirements of the Greek state as well as our own laws and obligations. And if we get there, we will have some remarkable objects coming here,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure, Osborne described his role as chairman as the best job he has ever held. He argued that his political experience has equipped him to manage the museum’s relationship with the government while safeguarding the institution’s independence.

Upon assuming his position, he said, the museum was in poor condition due to the pandemic and the scandal involving the theft of 2,000 artefacts. However, he emphasized that the institution has been gradually recovering.