The Greek Ministry of Culture is willing to promote and showcase in Greece, cultural artworks created by Greek Australians, as stated by Minister Lina Mendoni moments before her departure from Australia.
When asked about ways this could be made possible, she said that “the proposals will have to come from the diaspora”.
“There are things we do not know. We want to hear from you.”
The Minister mentioned the possibility of signing memorandums with the federal and state governments pertaining to a continued collaboration on cultural affairs between the two countries, both when it comes to cultural heritage and to modern civilisation.
Mrs Mendoni highlighted that Greece is focused on promoting its contemporary culture even though the requests received from overseas concern Ancient Greek Culture.
Furthermore, the Minister noted that the campaign for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures is gaining ground and thanked Australia for its continuous support. She shared further information regarding the 29 September decision by UNESCO and what further actions should be taken this coming September in Athens and internationally, to pressure the British side.
While in Sydney, Mrs Mendoni met with both National Committees of Australia working tirelessly for the repatriation of the Parthenon Sculptures and more specifically David Hill and George Vardas, President and Vice President of the Australian Parthenon Association, as well as with Emmanuel Comino, President of the International Organising Committee – Australia for the Restitution of the Parthenon Marbles.
In Melbourne, the Minister met with the Governor of Victoria, Linda Dessau who is Queen Elizabeth’s appointed representative in Victoria. Mrs Mendoni discussed the current and potential dynamic of the Greek community in Melbourne and Victoria. They also discussed the significance of Mrs Mendoni’s series of meetings since the start of her official visit to Australia on Tuesday.
Mrs Mendoni also met with former Victorian MP and minister Jenny Mikakos who was delighted to meet with Dr Mendoni again to personally thank her for her determination in sending Australia the priceless “Open Horizons” exhibition.
“She is a very warm and enthusiastic person and I expressed how impressed I was with the exhibition and how I’m sure it will be a great success,” Ms Mikakos said.
