Friday, April 9, 2010  MOU with Italy: AIA advice  The
Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) has posted advice
about the forthcoming review of the MOU with Italy. I would urge
readers of Looting Matters to take the time to submit their
comments.   Here is the advice from the AIA: How can you help?
One of the first stages in renewal of an MoU is review by the
Cultural Property Advisory Committee (CPAC) and you or your
organization can help by writing a letter that shows your
support. CPAC will make four determinations in deciding whether
to renew. These are:  1. The cultural patrimony of Italy is in
jeopardy from the pillage of archaeological materials. 2. Italy
has taken steps to protect its cultural patrimony. 3. U.S.
import restrictions are of substantial benefit in deterring the
situation of pillage. 4. Import restrictions promote the
interchange of cultural materials between the United States and
Italy for scientific, cultural and educational purposes.  You
can address these points by writing about y