Donald Trump will attend the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, his first overseas trip since winning the US presidential election. This reopening celebrates the restoration of the famous landmark following its fire damage five years ago. Significant global attention is expected for the event, symbolizing resilience and restoration.
United States President-elect Donald Trump has declared his intention to attend the reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking his first international trip following his election victory. This monumental event will celebrate the restoration of the iconic cathedral, which suffered extensive damage from a fire five years ago. The reopening is slated for Saturday and Sunday, welcoming both visitors and worshippers alike.
A significant number of global leaders are expected to join the ceremony, which French President Emmanuel Macron has described as a healing moment for the nation, akin to addressing a “national wound”. Trump expressed his appreciation for the restoration efforts, stating, “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. President Emmanuel 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!”.
During his presidency, Trump had previously commented on the fire at Notre-Dame, advocating for the use of water-dropping aircraft to combat the flames, a suggestion dismissed by French officials due to safety concerns regarding the cathedral’s structural integrity. While Trump and Macron have experienced a complex diplomatic relationship, they have also engaged in gestures of goodwill, including congratulations and state dinners even amid disagreements regarding NATO and taxation of American tech firms.
The restoration of Notre-Dame was primarily funded through donations amounting to 846 million euros ($887.4 million) from approximately 340,000 individuals across 150 countries. This five-year restoration project has involved around 250 companies and numerous experts, with the total estimated cost nearing 700 million euros ($734.3 million). Furthermore, surplus funds of approximately 140 million euros ($147 million) will support future preservation initiatives, as reiterated by restoration chief Philippe Jost during a recent conference.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral, a hallmark of Gothic architecture, was grievously damaged by a fire on April 15, 2019. Its restoration has garnered international attention and support, embodying not only architectural significance but also cultural and historical importance. The cathedral’s reopening ceremony symbolizes resilience and communal healing following the tragedy. President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership and outreach have facilitated the extensive restoration, which relies heavily on philanthropic donations and expertise from various sectors. As President-elect Trump prepares to attend this significant event, it showcases the interplay between political diplomacy and cultural heritage.
The forthcoming reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral represents a pivotal moment in cultural restoration and international diplomacy. President-elect Trump’s attendance underscores the global significance of the event, drawing attention to collaboration in addressing historical catastrophes. The collective effort to restore this landmark highlights not only France’s commitment to preserving its heritage but also the enduring spirit of unity among nations. As world leaders gather to commemorate this milestone, it is a testament to the power of collaboration in times of need.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
