Greece Participates for First Time in G7 Ministers’ Meeting on Culture

Photo source: G7

Greece participated for the first time in a G7 Ministers’ Meeting on Culture, following an invitation by the Italian presidency of the Group of Seven.

During the meeting, held recently in Naples, representatives from the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Canada, France, and Germany discussed “The Role of Culture for the Sustainable Development of Africa and the World”.

Greece and Italy: A natural European bridge to Africa

With Greece represented by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, her Italian counterpart, Alessandro Giuli, said: “Greece was invited and is participating in the conference because we consider it our great sister country, the source of our culture, leading us to develop a joint heritage that spans thousands of years. Italy and Greece represent the natural bridge of Europe to Africa.”

In her remarks, Minister Mendoni stated, “Greece is prepared to share its best practices and experiences, promoting culture as a guide for sustainable development.”

Africa and the ‘Industries of Culture and Creativity’

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni with her Italian counterpart Alessandro Giuli. Photo source: Culture Minister

Minister Mendoni congratulated the Italian presidency of the G7 for its significant initiative regarding Africa and its rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

“Together, we can ensure that Africa’s rich cultural heritage will not only contribute to the sustainable development of its continent but also to that of the planet,” she said.

The Greek minister highlighted the importance of the industries of culture and creativity, asserting that “by investing in various creative sectors, we can enhance Africa’s economic prospects and create jobs, allowing younger generations to build a future in their country based on their rich heritage”. She also referenced international entities such as the African Union and UNESCO, which play leading roles in this endeavor.

Bilateral meetings in Naples

Culture Minister of Canada Isabelle Mondou with Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni. Photo source: Culture Minister

During her trip to Naples, Minister Mendoni had the opportunity to hold bilateral meetings with her counterparts from several G7 countries.

In a meeting with U.S. Deputy Foreign Minister for Education and Culture, Lee Satterfield, Mendoni discussed the agreement with the State Department and the American Embassy in Athens concerning the trafficking of cultural goods, as well as collaboration on the impacts of climate change on cultural heritage.

With her Canadian counterpart, Isabelle Mondou, Minister Mendoni explored topics including the cooperation of museums and other cultural organizations, along with the cultural dimensions of the vibrant Greek communities in Canada.

In her meeting with Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner of the African Union, Mendoni reaffirmed Greece’s commitment to supporting African countries in managing, maintaining, and promoting their heritage.

Finally, during her discussion with Margareth Menezes, Brazil’s Minister of Culture, the two officials addressed initiatives for the preservation and protection of monuments.

The G7, the G20, and the European Union

The G7 comprises the seven most developed countries in the world. The conference in Naples was also attended by the ministers of culture from Brazil and India, both of which have previously held the presidency of the G20. The European Union was also represented at the conference.