NEW YORK (RTW News) — Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Friday that he has officially become a citizen of Albania, moving closer to his dream of stepping away from the political spotlight.
According to an official decree from the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, Adams requested the honorary citizenship. This news, first reported in the Albanian media, has been confirmed by Adams' spokesperson, Todd Shapiro, who stated that the recognition reflects Adams' longstanding friendship with the Albanian-American community.
Shapiro added, The decision by the Republic of Albania to grant Mayor Adams citizenship reflects that enduring relationship and mutual respect, emphasizing that it further solidifies the connection between New York and Albania.
Adams, who previously identified as an international mayor, has shown an affinity for the Balkan nation. His adult son has even lived there while participating in a local version of 'American Idol.' Adams himself visited Albania last October, alongside various international trips during his last months in office.
The purpose was to build a relationship with a friend that will not allow our oceans or seas to divide us, he remarked about his connection to Albania during that trip.
While details about his future plans remain unclear, Adams has expressed a strong desire to relocate far from New York City. In 2018, he mentioned a wish to retire in Baku and expressed interest in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights in a later interview. Following his unsuccessful reelection campaign, he has also stated plans to travel internationally, having recently been spotted in Dubai and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In January, Adams launched a cryptocurrency aimed at combating antisemitism but faced backlash after it lost significant value. Nonetheless, the granting of Albanian citizenship may present a new beginning for the former mayor as he seeks to transition away from his political career.
