Mayor Eric Adams confused India with Pakistan while speaking at an event commemorating Indian independence on Saturday, leading Hizzoner to quickly apologize for the President Biden-like gaffe.
Adams reportedly committed the mix-up at an Indian Independence Day parade in Queens, where he mistakenly referenced Pakistan multiple times.
“…So I thank you for allowing me to come here. I’ve known this community for so long, from little Pakistan and Queens, little Pakistan and Brooklyn, you are a major foundation of our entire city,” Hizzoner said during the remarks, Times of India reported, citing another outlet, PTI.
Adams quickly apologized after making the President Biden-like gaffe. Caroline Rubinstein-Willis/Mayoral Photography Office
Earlier in the speech, he also said “Pakistani officers” when giving a shout-out to the law enforcement community that was on hand, the outlet reported.
When reached Sunday night about the confusion, a City Hall spokesperson said Adams proactively went back on stage and apologized for the mistake.
“And made clear he was proud to be there to celebrate India’s independence,” the spokesperson said.
Adams posted photos and videos of himself celebrating with members of the Indian community on Saturday.
“So great to be with our Indian community in Queens today for their annual parade celebrating their independence!” he tweeted.
“These New Yorkers are an essential part of our city, and we are proud to work with them every day.”
Adams also spoke at a flag-raising ceremony for Pakistani independence on Wednesday and then at a flag-raising event for India on Thursday before the weekend remarks.
