MoU between the U.S. and Cyprus is Extended
July 18, 2012

U.S. Department of State

On Monday the U.S. Department of State announced that the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus, which protects the archaeological and ethnological heritage of Cyprus, has been extended for another five years. This extension includes an amendment that includes ecclesiastical and ritual material from the Post-Byzantine period (up to 1850 A.D.) on the Designated List of categories of material restricted from importation to the United States from the Republic of Cyprus. To view the official press release, visit the State Department’s website at http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2012/07/195071.htm.

We would like to thank the many AIA members who participated in this renewal process by sending hundreds of letters to the State Department’s Cultural Property Advisory Committee in support of the extension. Additionally, AIA members, including the Vice President of Professional Responsibilities, testified at the public hearing in favor of renewal. For an overview of the public meeting in January, visit our website at http://archaeological.org/news/advocacy/8558.

Public comments are an important statement of support for the creation and extension of MoUs, and we thank you for continuing to advocate for the protection of ancient and modern cultural heritage around the world.