PARIS,— Iraqi Kurdistan region president Nechirvan Barzani joined international leaders on Saturday to mark the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral, a symbol of resilience and global heritage after its devastating fire five years ago.
The ceremony, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, celebrated the iconic landmark’s remarkable restoration and drew a gathering of political and cultural figures.
Barzani stated in a social media message, “This historic moment represents the resilience to safeguard our collective human heritage.” He extended his congratulations to President Macron, lauding the collective efforts that restored the 860-year-old cathedral to its former glory.
Among the distinguished attendees were U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and business magnate Elon Musk.
Barzani took the opportunity to meet with Trump and other European leaders during the event. He also congratulated Trump on his electoral triumph last month. Their discussions underscored the importance of international cooperation on shared cultural and political challenges, according to sources familiar with the conversations.
The ceremony began with the tolling of Notre-Dame’s bells and a solemn gesture by Archbishop of Paris Laurent Ulrich, who struck the cathedral’s doors three times with his crozier to signify its reopening. Firefighters and restoration experts who played crucial roles in saving and rebuilding the Gothic masterpiece received standing ovations.
“I stand before you to express the deep gratitude of the French people to all those who have saved, supported, and restored this cathedral,” Macron said. He lauded the rapid reconstruction as a remarkable achievement that surpassed all expectations, saying, “This evening, we celebrate with joy and pride. Long live Notre-Dame de Paris, long live the Republic, and long live France.”
The restored cathedral’s new spire, rib vaulting, and ornate carvings shone brightly under the Parisian evening sky, accompanied by the word “Merci” projected onto its façade. Guests, including Britain’s Prince William and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, gathered to witness the historic moment. The ceremony concluded with the stirring notes of France’s national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” evoking a profound sense of unity.
The event also served as a diplomatic milestone for Macron, who facilitated a meeting between Trump and Zelenskiy earlier in the day at the Élysée Palace. Observers viewed this as a significant gesture amid ongoing global tensions.
After the ceremony, Macron hosted a state dinner at the presidential palace for the attending leaders, further cementing the day as a celebration of resilience, diplomacy, and cultural pride.
(With files from Reuters)
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