Downing Street accuses Greeks of breaking promise on Elgin Marbles
London, – A diplomatic row has erupted between the UK and Greece as Downing Street alleges that the Greek government breached assurances not to raise the issue of the Parthenon Sculptures during Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ visit to the UK.
The controversy unfolded after Mitsotakis, in an interview with the BBC, likened the division of the ancient treasures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, between London and Athens to cutting the Mona Lisa in half. The UK responded by canceling a planned meeting between Mitsotakis and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak. Labour dismisses the dispute as “pathetic,” emphasizing the need for discussions on broader issues. The Elgin Marbles, taken to the UK by British diplomat Lord Elgin in the 19th century, remain a focal point of contention between the two nations.
No 10 cancels meeting amid Elgin Marbles dispute
London, [Current Date] – Tensions have flared between the UK and Greece as Downing Street claims that the Greek government reneged on assurances not to discuss the Elgin Marbles during Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ visit to the UK.
The dispute unfolded after Mitsotakis compared the division of the Parthenon Sculptures between London and Athens to cutting the Mona Lisa in half during a BBC interview. In response, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak’s planned meeting with Mitsotakis was abruptly canceled by No 10. Labour criticizes the row as “pathetic,” urging a focus on more pressing matters. The Elgin Marbles, taken to the UK by Lord Elgin in the 19th century, continue to be a diplomatic flashpoint between the two nations.
