U.S. and Cyprus Extend Agreement to Protect Archaeological and Ethnological Heritage of Cyprus

Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns and Ambassador of Cyprus to the United States Andreas Kakouris held a ceremonial exchange of diplomatic notes today signifying the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that protects the rich archaeological and ethnological heritage of Cyprus. The MOU, which entered into force in 2002, is extended for an additional five years, effective July 16, 2007. Its continuation reflects the strong commitment of the United States to help safeguard Cypriot heritage and offers the opportunity for ongoing cooperation to reduce further pillage, thereby increasing opportunities for scientific study of intact sites. It also illustrates the strength of U.S.-Cyprus bilateral relations.

The MOU enables the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to continue import restrictions on pre-Classical and Classical archaeological objects and Byzantine period ecclesiastical and ritual ethnological material unless accompanied by an export permit issued by Cyprus. The designated list of categories of material restricted from import into the United States, has been published in the Federal Register by DHS.

Byzantine ritual and ecclesiastical ethnological material such as icons, mosaics and frescos - ranging in date from approximately the 4th century A.D. through approximately the 15th century A.D. - illustrate the high degree of artistic achievement in Cyprus and include some of the finest pieces of Byzantine art ever produced. The rich archaeological heritage of Cyprus illustrates the interaction of the island's inhabitants with neighboring societies, while maintaining a uniquely Cypriot character. Much of the history of the island from the 8th millennium B.C. to approximately 330 A.D. can be understood only from archaeological remains, because historical texts are very rare.

With the extension of this MOU, DHS amended the designated list of restricted categories to include ancient coins of Cypriot types produced from the end of the 6^th century B.C. to 235 A.D. Coins, a significant and inseparable part of the archaeological record of the island, are especially valuable to understanding the history of Cyprus.

This extension of the MOU is consistent with the recommendation of the Cultural Property Advisory Committee, which is administered by the Bureau for Educational and Cultural Affairs. The MOU, the Designated List, and other information may be found at http://exchanges.state.gov/culprop/cyfactpc.html.

2007/615