Türkiye responds to NYC Mayor Probe: “We don’t interfere in internal affairs”

by YetkinReport / 28 September 2024, Saturday / Published in Politics

The Turkish Foreign Ministry has issued a statement regarding the ongoing corruption investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams, which reportedly involves the Turkish House in New York and Turkish officials. (Foto: AA)

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to “non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs.”

“Our foreign representations carry out their duties in accordance with the Vienna Convention and international diplomatic customs. It is out of the question for us to interfere in the internal affairs of any country,” he said in a written statement.

The spokesperson also noted that Türkiye is closely monitoring the legal proceedings in New York.

“Naturally, we reserve our rights arising from the Vienna Conventions,” Keçeli added, referring to the international treaties that govern diplomatic relations between states.

Mayor Adams pleaded not guilty

The statement comes in response to a corruption probe involving Mayor Adams, which has reportedly touched on interactions with Turkish officials and the Turkish House in New York.

Mayor Adams pleaded not guilty on Sat. 27 to federal charges of accepting bribes and illegal campaign contributions from Turkish nationals, as the Democrat resists mounting calls from within his own party to resign, Reuters reports.

“I am not guilty, your honor,” Adams said when Parker asked for his plea. His lawyer, Alex Spiro, said he would file a motion to dismiss the charges next week. Adams is next due in court on Oct. 2.

The mayor was released without having to post any bail on the condition that he not have contact with witnesses or people named in the indictment. Parker said there would be exceptions for staff and family members, so long as he does not discuss the details of the indictment with them.