President-elect Donald Trump will attend the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris this weekend, joining over 50 world leaders to mark the completion of a five-year reconstruction effort. The iconic cathedral, nearly destroyed in a devastating 2019 fire, has been painstakingly restored to its former glory.
The event will begin Saturday with a high-security service led by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich. The archbishop will ceremonially reopen the cathedral doors and reawaken its historic grand organ, which was extensively repaired after being covered in toxic dust from the fire. French President Emmanuel Macron, credited with overseeing the restoration project, will deliver remarks to the assembled dignitaries.
Trump announced his participation on Truth Social, praising Macron’s efforts and calling the occasion “a very special day for all.” This marks Trump’s first international appearance since winning the 2024 election, signaling his reengagement on the world stage ahead of his January inauguration.
During the visit, Trump is expected to highlight Franco-American relations. He recently announced his intention to nominate Charles Kushner, father of Jared Kushner, as U.S. ambassador to France, underscoring the importance of diplomatic ties.
The reopening ceremonies are expected to draw global attention, celebrating both Notre-Dame’s architectural triumph and its spiritual significance. Meanwhile, there has been no confirmation of President Joe Biden’s attendance, raising speculation about his weekend plans.
Notre-Dame, an enduring symbol of faith and resilience, will reopen to the public following this weekend’s ceremonies, resuming its role as a place of worship and cultural heritage for millions worldwide.
