Donald Trump to Attend Notre Dame Cathedral Reopening in Paris as President-Elect

 

Donald Trump has announced plans to attend the grand reopening of the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris this weekend, marking his first international trip as the U.S. president-elect.

The iconic 850-year-old cathedral, severely damaged by a devastating fire in 2019, has undergone extensive restoration and will officially reopen to the public on Saturday and Sunday. The event is expected to draw numerous world leaders, including Trump.

“It is an honor to announce that I will be traveling to Paris, France, on Saturday to attend the re-opening of the Magnificent and Historic Notre Dame Cathedral, which has been fully restored after a devastating fire five years ago,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who spearheaded the ambitious five-year reconstruction plan, toured the restored cathedral on Friday. He praised the project’s completion as a remarkable achievement, describing it as healing a "national wound."

Macron stated, "Workers have done the impossible. This is a testament to our nation’s resolve and unity."

Trump also commended Macron's efforts, stating on Truth Social, "Macron has done a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory, and even more so. It will be a very special day for all!"

The restoration of Notre Dame involved the expertise of over 250 companies and hundreds of specialists. The total cost of the project reached nearly €700 million (approximately $750 million), funded primarily through €846 million in donations from 150 countries.

The 2019 fire that engulfed the cathedral shocked the world. During the blaze, Trump suggested using water bombers to extinguish the flames, a recommendation dismissed by French fire services as impractical.

Trump’s relationship with Macron has seen ups and downs over the years. Initially, the two leaders shared what appeared to be a friendly rapport, but differing approaches to global policies eventually created tension. Trump’s attendance at the reopening could signal a potential reset in their diplomatic relationship.

Notably absent from the reopening will be Pope Francis. Although Macron extended an invitation in December 2023, the Pope declined in September, surprising many observers.

The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral symbolizes resilience and global solidarity, with millions worldwide eagerly awaiting the return of this architectural and cultural marvel.