Greece has proposed creating an international network to strengthen the resilience of underwater cultural heritage, using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve research, monitoring and protection, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni announced at the fourth meeting of the Council of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia (ACHA).
Speaking at the meeting, Mendoni highlighted Greece’s international role in protecting global cultural heritage and stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing threats that cross national borders. She also emphasised the scientific and ethical responsibilities that accompany the use of emerging technologies.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Mendoni said effective heritage protection requires a combination of historical awareness, scientific knowledge, technological innovation and international collaboration.
She proposed that Greece and ACHA member countries work together to protect underwater cultural heritage and strengthen its resilience by harnessing the capabilities of AI.
Welcoming the invitation for Greece to participate in the meeting, Mendoni said the country’s presence reflected the importance of contributing actively to international discussions on cultural heritage and connecting historical knowledge with contemporary scientific and technological developments.
She described cultural heritage as a universal asset and its protection as a collective responsibility of the international community towards future generations.
Mendoni also highlighted the longstanding cultural traditions of Greece and China, noting that bilateral cultural relations had flourished in recent years through significant initiatives.
“The memory must evolve into relevant knowledge and a shared vision for the future, becoming the raw material for the creativity, progress and innovation of our modern societies,” she said.
AI offers new tools for cultural heritage protection
Addressing the use of AI and new technologies in cultural heritage protection, Mendoni outlined their potential to support research, documentation, risk prediction and the preservation of monuments.
She added that these technologies could broaden public access to knowledge while strengthening education and enriching cultural experiences.
However, she stressed that authorities and researchers must use AI responsibly, with scientific accountability, transparency and ethical safeguards that respect the authenticity and diversity of cultural heritage.
Mendoni identified the prevention of climate change impacts on cultural heritage as a priority for the application of new technologies.
Greece is developing policies to integrate AI into the management, preservation and promotion of its cultural assets. The national strategy covers a broad range of activities, including the use of cultural data, research, monument monitoring, wider public access, skills development, innovation and safeguards for responsible technological use.
The minister stressed that international cooperation and the exchange of expertise were essential because cultural heritage threats often extend beyond national borders.
She also called for shared methodologies and the dissemination of best practices to establish a responsible framework for AI applications.
“Technology is not an end in itself but a means that, under the appropriate scientific, ethical and institutional conditions, can substantially strengthen the protection and transmission of cultural heritage to future generations,” Mendoni said.
Greece proposes Mediterranean-Asian cooperation
Building on ACHA’s initiatives, Greece proposed establishing a network dedicated to the resilience of underwater cultural heritage.
The proposed network could bring together Greece, China, Egypt, the Maldives, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.
It would combine Mediterranean experience with Asian expertise, encourage joint research approaches and facilitate the exchange of data and best practices.
The initiative would focus on addressing threats to underwater cultural heritage worldwide while exploring how AI could strengthen research, risk assessment and protection efforts.
The proposal reflects Greece’s push to expand international partnerships and apply emerging technologies to the long-term preservation of cultural assets for future generations.
(Source: AMNA)
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