Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden for the repatriation of 297 ancient artifacts, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in combating illicit trafficking of cultural heritage. This latest return marks a significant step in protecting India’s cultural legacy, adding to the over 500 artifacts returned since 2016.
The US government returned 262 antiquities to India and signed a Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) with India to curb the illicit trade of culturally valuable property. This agreement restricts the import of certain archaeological and ethnological materials from India into the US, including religious, ceremonial, and architectural items. The repatriation of artifacts was hailed as an investment in cultural diplomacy and sustainable development.
