Greek and Bulgarian leaders sign protocol to return cultural relics

In a formal event at the Museum of Byzantine Culture, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev signed a protocol governing the handover of historic artifacts between Greece and Bulgaria. Mitsotakis stressed that monuments cannot be regarded as war loot and that the agreement represents a broader partnership aimed at returning additional relics in the future. The ceremony also saw the culture ministers of both countries, Lina Mendoni and Efthym Myloshev, affix their signatures to the protocol.

Prior to the signing, Mitsotakis guided visitors through an exhibition of the returned items, which will be displayed at the museum for a limited period. The leaders framed the deal as a step toward deeper cultural collaboration.