President-elect Donald Trump is set to visit Paris on Saturday to attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, marking his first overseas trip since being re-elected for a second term in office in November.
According to sources familiar with the plans, Trump's team had been in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron's office for days regarding the visit. The French government extended an invitation to Trump to attend the reopening ceremony.
In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump praised President Macron for his efforts in restoring Notre Dame to its former glory, calling it a 'wonderful job.' Trump expressed his anticipation for what he described as a 'very special day for all.'
Throughout Trump's first administration, he and Macron had a close working relationship, often characterized as a 'bromance,' despite occasional public displays of hostility. Macron was quick to congratulate Trump on his re-election, emphasizing their shared commitment to working together for peace and prosperity.
Macron's office confirmed that he was the first foreign leader to congratulate Trump on his nonconsecutive term victory. The two leaders spoke by phone following Macron's congratulatory message, reaffirming their mutual respect and ambition to collaborate.
Trump's visit to Paris for the Notre Dame Cathedral reopening underscores the diplomatic ties between the United States and France, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and cultural heritage preservation.