Greece’s culture ministry will host the 9th ministerial meeting of the ancient civilizations forum that will take place at the Acropolis Museum on Friday.

Two themes will dominate the agenda, namely, managing the climate crisis and its effects on cultural heritage, on the one hand, and combating the trafficking of cultural goods, according to a ministry press release.

Culture minister or high-ranking officials from members Armenia, China, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Italy and Peru will join host Greece at the forum, along with observers from China and India.

Ancient Civilizations Forum

Among others, representatives are due to officially adopt the Declaration of Athens, which aims to boost international cooperation for the protection and promotion of global cultural heritage. Cyprus’ membership will also come up for vote.

According to the ministry, the forum highlights Greece’s active role in promoting inter-cultural dialogue and cooperation for the protection of ancient civilizations and cultural heritage at global level.

Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis will deliver the opening statement.