New York City Mayor Eric Adams has embarked on a four-day trip to Albania, a visit that has drawn scrutiny due to its timing and the partial funding by the Albanian government. The trip, which began Sunday, comes just weeks after Adams announced he would not seek re-election, raising questions about his priorities in his final months in office.
Key Takeaways
- Mayor Eric Adams is on a four-day trip to Albania.
- The trip is at the invitation of Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
- The Albanian government is covering lodging and ground transportation costs.
- Adams’s decision to travel so late in his term has drawn criticism.
Purpose of the Visit
City Hall stated that the primary objective of Mayor Adams’s visit is to foster business relationships and boost tourism between New York City and Albania. He is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Edi Rama, government officials, and business leaders to explore new economic opportunities. Adams has expressed a desire to increase direct flights between the two locations, drawing a parallel to a similar initiative with Azerbaijan.
Timing and Controversy
The timing of the trip has been a significant point of contention. With only a few months remaining in his term, critics argue that Adams should be focusing on solidifying his legacy and addressing pressing issues within New York City. Lawmakers have expressed surprise, suggesting that his final weeks should be dedicated to mayoral duties rather than international travel. The fact that the trip was not disclosed on his public schedule until after his departure has also fueled speculation.
Financial Arrangements
While the Albanian government is covering the costs of Adams’s lodging and ground transportation, estimated at under $300 per day, New York City taxpayers are footing the bill for airfare for the mayor and a staffer, as well as security detail expenses. The mayor’s office maintains that these arrangements comply with city conflict-of-interest rules and are necessary for adequate security. However, good government groups have criticized the acceptance of any gifts from foreign governments, regardless of the amount.
Personal Ties to Albania
Mayor Adams has personal connections to Albania that predate this official visit. His son, Jordan Coleman, an aspiring rapper, participated in Albania’s equivalent of "American Idol" in 2022. Adams has spoken publicly about his son’s experience and his own desire to visit the country, even referencing it during an Albanian cultural event in New York City. New York City is home to a significant Albanian-American population, estimated at 60,000 residents.
Past Travel and Scrutiny
This trip adds to a pattern of international travel throughout Adams’s political career. As Brooklyn borough president, he reportedly visited China multiple times, and as mayor, he has traveled to various countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. Adams’s foreign trips have previously faced scrutiny, including a federal indictment related to alleged illegal travel perks from Turkish officials, though those charges were later dropped. His decision to travel now, especially with partial foreign funding, has reignited discussions about transparency and the appropriateness of such excursions for public officials.
Sources
- Where in the World Is Eric Adams? Try Albania., The New York Times.
- Adams Spends First Post-Mayoral Campaign Week in Albania, New York Magazine.
- NYC Mayor Eric Adams visits Albania; spox says no ambasssadorship – NBC New York, NBC 4 New York.
- Mayor Adams Takes Albania: 5 Notable Facts About the Mayor’s Balkan Voyage, Hell Gate.
- Mayor Adams heads to Albania, with Albanian government footing some of the bill, Gothamist.
