French ex-minister investigated for tax fraud with Epstein

The French National Financial Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into former Culture Minister Jack Lang and his daughter Caroline Lang on suspicion of aggravated tax fraud. The investigation is linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Pressure on Lang to resign as president of the Arab World Institute in Paris increased after the US Department of Justice released documents last week showing correspondence between Lang and Epstein between 2012 and 2019.

According to French media, the investigation began after the discovery of long-standing contacts and financial ties between the two men, including relationships abroad. However, the details are not known.

The politician denies any wrongdoing. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which oversees the Arab World Institute, has summoned him in connection with this matter. Lang's lawyer confirmed that his client will provide all necessary explanations to the supervisory authorities and the courts. He emphasized that, in his opinion, there is no evidence of any transfer of funds.

According to Reuters, Lang's name appears more than 600 times in Epstein's files. Caroline Lang resigned as head of the Independent Producers Association after the information was made public.

(reuters, max)