French President Emmanuel Macron expressed heartfelt thanks to all who played a role in saving, assisting, and rebuilding the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, which recently reopened after a devastating fire in 2019. The reopening ceremony was attended by international leaders in Paris, marking a significant moment for France and the global community.
The event was opened by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, who ceremoniously welcomed guests to the cathedral that has stood for over 800 years. Among the dignitaries present were Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President-elect Donald Trump, who attended his first overseas trip since winning the recent US election.
Macron addressed the crowd, highlighting the collective efforts that made the restoration possible and rejoicing in the sound of Notre-Dame’s bells ringing once again. He stated, “Tonight, I stand before you … to express the gratitude of the French nation – gratitude to all those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre-Dame.”
The catastrophic fire in 2019 posed a grave threat to the historic structure, but prompted an outpouring of nearly $1 billion in donations worldwide for reconstruction. After extensive work, Notre-Dame has been restored to its former glory, featuring a new spire, and enhancements to its rib vaulting and intricate stone carvings.
During the ceremony, French firefighters who bravely battled the blaze received an enthusiastic standing ovation, expressing the nation’s deep appreciation for their efforts. A bright “merci” was also projected onto the façade of the cathedral as a symbol of gratitude.
Local resident and careworker Pascal Tordeux shared his emotional journey, having witnessed the cathedral’s transformation from fire to restoration: “I saw the spire being brought down, being brought back. I saw it burn; I saw it rise again.”
The reopening comes amid political challenges for Macron, following significant shifts in his government. Observers note that this celebration serves as an opportunity for Macron to engage in diplomatic discussions with global leaders, including overseeing talks between Zelenskyy and Trump prior to the ceremony. Zelenskyy characterized their discussions as “good and productive,” emphasizing a shared desire for peace in a turbulent region.
This momentous occasion signifies not just the resurgence of a cherished monument but also a hope for unity, collaboration, and a brighter future. Even amidst political challenges, the spirit of solidarity shone through the gathering, reinforcing the importance of shared cultural heritage and resilience in the face of adversity.