Former French Culture Minister Jack Lang Under Investigation for Money Laundering Linked to Jeffrey Epstein Files

Paris. French financial crime prosecutors have launched a preliminary investigation into former Culture Minister Jack Lang on suspicion of laundering funds obtained through tax evasion. This investigation was initiated following revelations about his association with American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The 86-year-old Lang has denied the allegations, calling them baseless. He stated that the investigation will clarify his integrity.

A few hours after the investigation was announced, Lang declared his intention to resign from his post as the head of the 'Arab World Institute,' an organization promoting France-Arab relations. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot accepted the proposal and announced the start of the search process for a successor.

Lang's name appears nearly 700 times in the Epstein files. His daughter, Caroline Lang, is also under investigation. She has already resigned from her leadership position at the French film producers' association.

Lang stated that when he met Epstein about 15 years ago, he knew nothing of his crimes. He claimed he considered Epstein to be a person interested in art and culture. However, French media have published details, including Lang's use of Epstein's car and private jet.

The files do not link Lang or his daughter to Epstein's sexual crimes. However, questions have been raised about financial ties between the two parties. Epstein committed suicide in a New York jail in 2019.