PARIS — Donald Trump embarked on his first overseas journey as president-elect, preparing to engage with global leaders and dignitaries during a festive gathering in Paris on Saturday. This event marks the renovation of Notre Dame Cathedral, which had suffered extensive damage from a major fire in 2019.
Trump expressed his gratitude upon accepting the invitation earlier in the week, praising French President Emmanuel Macron for the impressive restoration efforts. He stated, “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!”
While Macron has worked diligently to foster a relationship with Trump, especially following his recent victory against Vice President Kamala Harris, his office chose to downplay the invitation’s significance. They noted that many politicians who are not currently in office had also received invitations.
According to Macron’s administration, Trump was invited as the president-elect of a “friendly nation,” emphasizing that this practice has been common and was not exceptional.
President Joe Biden was also extended an invitation but will not be attending. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre informed reporters of a scheduling conflict, confirming that first lady Jill Biden would represent the United States instead.
Trump and the first lady last interacted shortly after the election during a traditional meeting at the White House designed for transitioning presidents. This visit to France comes at a crucial time when Macron and other European leaders are seeking to secure Trump’s favor and ensure continued American support for Ukraine against the ongoing Russian invasion.
Before the event at Notre Dame, Macron is scheduled to hold meetings with Trump and subsequently with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to the French president’s office.
The relationship between France and the U.S. during Trump’s initial presidency began on a positive note but deteriorated over time. Macron was honored as the guest at Trump’s inaugural state dinner, and Trump made several visits to France. However, tensions arose when Macron publicly criticized Trump’s reservations about NATO and questioned America’s commitment to the alliance.
While campaigning this year, Trump made various jabs at Macron, mimicking his accent and threatening hefty tariffs on imported French wine and champagne in retaliation for any new taxes imposed on American companies.
Nevertheless, Macron was one of the first world leaders to reach out to Trump after the recent election, sending a congratulatory message via social media. “Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump,” he tweeted the morning following the election. “Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”
In 2019, when a catastrophic fire blazed through Notre Dame, Trump was in office. He expressed his distress over the incident on Twitter, suggesting the use of flying water tankers to aid firefighting efforts. His suggestion prompted French officials to clarify that while all resources were in use to combat the flames, aerial water-dumping would risk the cathedral’s collapse.
Recently, Trump declared his intention to nominate Charles Kushner, his son-in-law Jared Kushner’s father and a real estate developer, to the position of ambassador to France.
