Greece's culture minister has formally asked Austria to begin discussions on the return of two Parthenon fragments currently held in a Vienna museum, a key part of Athens' long-running campaign to reunify the ancient sculptures.
The request was made during a working meeting in Vienna between Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and Austrian Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler.
While affirming the excellent cultural ties between the two nations, Ms. Mendoni stressed Greece’s commitment to the "definitive reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures at the Acropolis Museum."
Mr. Babler expressed openness to a technical discussion on the matter, but noted that Austria currently lacks the legal framework to finalize such a return.
The two marble fragments are exhibited at Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum.
The diplomatic meeting coincided with a landmark cultural event: the world premiere performance of the Thessaloniki State Orchestra at Vienna’s iconic Musikverein Golden Hall.
Ms. Mendoni, who attended the concert, praised it as a proud moment reflecting Greece's growing presence on the global cultural stage.