The Italian Ambassador to Bogotá, Gherardo Amaduzzi, took part in a ceremony held at the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to mark the return to Colombia of a collection of ancient pre-Columbian archaeological artefacts found in Italy by the Carabinieri Department for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Turin. The Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs, Laura Gil, was present.
The Colombian authorities paid tribute to the work of the Italian police forces and thanked Italy for its cooperation and the state of bilateral relations.
In his speech, Ambassador Amaduzzi highlighted the efforts made by the Italian police forces to protect cultural heritage and assets, not only in Italy but also internationally, and especially the commendable work of the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Turin, which further confirms the excellent bilateral relations between Colombia and Italy.
The recovered collection of 178 pieces was officially handed over to the Colombian Embassy in Rome. The artefacts arrived in Colombia on board the Colombian presidential plane on 21 January.
