(DailyVantage.com) – President-elect Donald Trump attended the highly anticipated reopening ceremony of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking the iconic structure’s revival five years after a fire nearly destroyed it. The event, celebrated as a testament to resilience and global cooperation, drew dignitaries and leaders from around the world.
The $740 million restoration project, funded by donations from 150 countries, meticulously restored the cathedral using 13th-century carpentry techniques to honor its historical authenticity. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the symbolic significance of the restoration, calling it a “victory for culture and unity.”
Trump, seated between Macron and French First Lady Brigitte Macron, joined other prominent figures in celebrating the achievement. Among the attendees were Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prince William, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and First Lady Jill Biden, who was accompanied by her daughter Ashley Biden. President Joe Biden was notably absent from the ceremony.
The gathering provided opportunities for diplomatic engagements. Trump held private meetings with Macron and Zelenskyy before the event, discussing topics ranging from international security to trade partnerships. Macron, the first foreign leader to congratulate Trump on his recent election victory, personally invited him to attend the ceremony. Trump was also scheduled to meet with Prince William following the ceremony, further cementing his presence on the global stage ahead of his inauguration.
Paris Police Chief Laurent Nuñez confirmed nearly 50 heads of state were in attendance, underscoring Notre Dame’s importance as a global symbol of resilience. The restored cathedral now stands as a beacon of hope and perseverance, drawing attention not only to its historical and architectural significance but also to its enduring role as a cultural and spiritual landmark.
For Trump, the ceremony offered a moment to connect with international leaders while participating in an event rich with symbolic meaning. “This incredible restoration is a testament to the strength of the human spirit,” Trump said in a brief statement after the event. “Notre Dame will continue to inspire the world for generations to come.”
The reopening ceremony underscored the unity that Notre Dame represents, bringing together leaders from diverse nations in a shared celebration of one of the world’s most cherished landmarks.
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