Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been granted Albanian citizenship, according to a presidential decree signed this past Friday. The move, which comes after a formal request from Adams, marks a distinct chapter in the former mayor’s well-documented history of international diplomacy and travel.
The official document, signed by Albanian President Bajram Begaj, explicitly states the granting of citizenship to “Eric L. Leroy Adams.” The decree formalizes a relationship between the former mayor and the Balkan nation that has spanned several years of cultural and political engagement.
The decision arrives amidst a broader pattern of Adams fostering ties with the Albanian community, both within the five boroughs of New York and abroad. A spokesperson for the former mayor, Todd Shapiro, stated that the citizenship “further strengthens the bond between New York and Albania,” describing the gesture as a reflection of “enduring relationship and mutual respect.”
Justin Persaud/Mayoral Photography Office
Mayor Eric Adams marches in the Albanian Parade in Manhattan on June 21, 2025. (Justin Persaud/Mayoral Photography Office)
A history of diplomatic engagement in the Balkans
The granting of citizenship follows a period of intensified interaction between Adams and Albanian leadership. In October 2025, shortly after ending his bid for a second mayoral term, Adams traveled to Albania for a series of high-level meetings. During that visit, he met with the country’s prime minister and various prominent business leaders to discuss economic and cultural ties.
That specific trip drew scrutiny regarding its financial arrangements. Reports indicate the journey was partially funded by New York City taxpayers, with the city covering the cost of flights and several travel expenses. In turn, the Albanian government provided the former mayor’s lodging and ground transportation during his stay.
This diplomatic trajectory is consistent with Adams’ tenure as mayor, during which he frequently engaged with the Albanian-American diaspora. New York City is home to one of the largest Albanian populations outside of the Balkans, and Adams often participated in community events, including the annual Albanian Parade in Manhattan.
The precedent for dual citizenship among global leaders
Even as the acquisition of a second passport by a former U.S. Official often raises questions, Adams’ team argues that such honors are not uncommon for international figures. Todd Shapiro pointed to the example of Boris Johnson, the former mayor of London, who holds dual citizenship due to his birth in the United States.
Legal experts note that honorary or special citizenships are often used by nations as diplomatic tools to cement alliances or recognize the contributions of foreign leaders to their national interests. In this instance, the Republic of Albania appears to be leveraging the citizenship to maintain a strategic bridge to the city of New York.
Despite the new legal status, Shapiro clarified that Adams does not have plans to relocate to Albania. The citizenship is viewed instead as a symbolic and legal recognition of his ties to the nation rather than a precursor to residency.
Timeline of key events
| Date | Event | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| June 21, 2025 | Albanian Parade | Adams marches in the Manhattan parade. |
| October 2025 | Balkan Visit | Trip to Albania following his reelection bid withdrawal. |
| Friday (Recent) | Presidential Decree | President Bajram Begaj signs the citizenship decree. |
Implications for New York-Albania relations
The move is expected to be welcomed by the Albanian community in New York, which has long viewed Adams as a supportive ally. By formalizing his status as a citizen, Albania secures a high-profile advocate with deep connections in the American political and financial capital.
Although, the use of public funds for the trip that preceded this citizenship grant remains a point of contention for some critics of the former administration, who question the overlap between official city business and personal diplomatic pursuits.
As the process concludes, the focus shifts to how this dual status will influence Adams’ future international engagements. While he remains a private citizen in the U.S., his new status provides him with unique access to Balkan diplomatic circles.
The next confirmed step in this process will be the formal issuance of the citizenship documents and the potential for a public ceremony to mark the occasion, though no date has been officially scheduled.
We invite readers to share their thoughts on the intersection of diplomatic honors and public service in the comments below.
