The much disputed Elgin Marbles could be viewed in both London and Athen as part of a new deal.
Former Chancellor George Osborne – now chairman of the British Museum – says a “win-win” deal can be agreed between both sides.
Mr Osborne confirmed the museum is working with the Greek authorities to “share” the frieze.
Mr Osborne said: “It’s a very hard problem to solve.
“But I think there is a way forward where these sculptures, the Elgin Marbles, the Parthenon Sculptures, could be seen both in London and in Athens.
“That will be a win-win for Greece and for us.”
Speaking on the Today programme he added:
“We’re talking to the Greek government about that, about a new arrangement.
“What I didn’t want to do is force the Greeks to accept things that they find impossible.
“Equally they can’t force on us things that we would find impossible.”
Mr Osborne has said the Marbles can’t be “simply handed over” as the British Museum Act prevents artefacts held for the public being given away.
Greek negotiators are looking for a deal that would respect this law and – at the same time – see the Marbles returned to Athens.
The UK Government has offered to loan the Marbles to Greece – but that requires an acceptance on their part [Greece] they don’t own the treasures.
Greece argues the Marbles were stolen by Lord Elgin in the early 18th Century.
