Revitalize the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs

Revitalize the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs


“Vexed by scandal and hemmed in by the mayor’s focus on style over substance, the office is missing opportunities to advance the city through global partnerships and is in desperate need of revitalization.”

Revitalize the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs

Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Eric Adams delivers remarks at the Turkish flag raising ceremony in Manhattan on Oct. 29, 2022.

A year ago, Mayor Eric Adams raised the Turkish flag over lower Manhattan and proudly declared that “New York City is the Istanbul of America.” During his term, the mayor has presided over more flag-raisings than any recent predecessor, ostensibly to tout our city’s deep international ties. These events are more ward politics than international diplomacy, geared towards earning votes more than fostering global connection.

Ed Mermelstein, commissioner of the scandal-plagued Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, is a common sight at these spectacles. His office is tasked with “cultivating critical partnerships with the international community.” Unfortunately, the office is currently better known for its proximity to the mayor’s recent indictment via former director of protocol, Rana Abbasova, who allegedly has been involved in illicit campaign activities. Vexed by scandal and hemmed in by the mayor’s focus on style over substance, the office is missing opportunities to advance the city through global partnerships and is in desperate need of revitalization. 





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