Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reiterated calls for the return of the Parthenon Marbles from Britain, emphasizing that their repatriation should be a key element in discussions over closer ties between the European Union and the United Kingdom. The sculptures, which have been housed in the British Museum for more than two centuries, remain a point of contention between Greece and Britain.

Mitsotakis criticized the lack of progress in negotiations with the British Museum over the marbles' return, stating that previous talks have stalled. Greece asserts that the marbles were taken without consent in 1802 by Lord Elgin during Ottoman rule and should be returned to their place of origin. Conversely, British authorities maintain that the marbles were legally acquired by Elgin and subsequently sold to the British Museum.

Ahead of elections scheduled for early next year, Mitsotakis indicated plans to intensify Greece’s campaign to reclaim the sculptures, signaling a more assertive diplomatic approach. His government has previously proposed offering the British Museum temporary access to other significant archaeological artifacts that remain in Greece as part of a cultural exchange, though these offers have not resulted in the marbles' repatriation.

The dispute over the Parthenon Marbles remains a longstanding cultural and political issue, reflecting broader debates about heritage ownership and historical accountability. Greece continues to seek support for its position both domestically and internationally, while the British Museum and government have resisted calls for the marbles' return, citing legal acquisition and the importance of maintaining the collection in London.