Statement on Artifact Repatriation by Minister of Culture and Tourism Ersoy

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that they requested assistance from the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) in the process of returning cultural assets smuggled abroad through illegal means. Emphasizing that the return of 26 artifacts was secured within 2026, Ersoy expressed that a total of 13,474 artifacts have been brought back to the country since 2002.

MIT Support in Artifact Repatriation

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that they occasionally request assistance from the MIT during the tracking and repatriation process of historical assets smuggled abroad.

Thousands of Artifacts Since 2002

Minister Ersoy reported that the return of 26 artifacts was secured in 2026, and the total number of artifacts brought back to the country since 2002 has reached 13,474.

It was noted that more than 9,000 of these artifacts were brought back as a result of determined diplomacy and legal struggle over the past 8 years.

Continuous Monitoring and International Cooperation

Stating that experts regularly inspect museums, auctions, and collections, Ersoy emphasized that bilateral agreements have been signed with 14 countries to date.

It was stated that the cooperation agreement carried out with the USA was extended for another five years in March 2026.

Cultural Investment in the Earthquake Zone

Providing information about the works carried out in Kahramanmaras, Minister Ersoy announced that a total investment of 34 billion liras has been made to protect the cultural heritage in the provinces affected by the earthquake.