Advocacy News

February 11, 2016

United States Extends Memorandum of Understanding To Protect the Cultural Heritage of Italy


On January 15, 2016, the United States and the Government of the Republic of Italy announced that they have extended the bilateral agreement between these two countries in the continued efforts to protect the archaeological heritage of Italy from pillage and illicit trafficking. Consistent with a recommendation made by the U.S. Cultural Property Advisory Committee, the extension recognizes the continued threat to Italy’s archaeological heritage and builds on the United States’ ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and respect for the heritage of other countries. Effective January 19, 2016, the agreement has been extended for a period of five years.

The AIA would like to thank all of its members who submitted letters to CPAC in support of this extension. Public comments are an important part of the extension process, and we are thankful to have such an active group of supporters at the AIA!

For more information on this extension, visit the U.S. Cultural Heritage Center website for Italy. Visit the website of the U.S. Department of State to view the original press release.

support Us

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. Your contribution makes a difference.