President-elect Donald Trump lauded Prince William as “doing a fantastic job” during their meeting in Paris on Saturday. The pair met at the British ambassador’s residence following the ceremonial reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, which had been restored after a devastating fire in 2019.
Trump warmly greeted William, shaking hands and referring to him as a “good man” before they ascended to a private meeting room.
Cordial Conversations
Before the meeting began, William lightheartedly remarked about warming up after the chilly cathedral event. Trump, seated on a gold-accented sofa in the Salon Jaune room, smiled and agreed. The prince’s last official visit with Trump was during the former president’s state visit to the UK in 2019.
Notre Dame Ceremony Highlights
Earlier, the cathedral’s reopening featured the ritual opening of its doors, the activation of its organ, and the first Mass since the 2019 fire. Tickets for subsequent Masses sold out in just 25 minutes, according to the cathedral’s rector.
Prince William received a warm welcome from French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron during the event. He also spoke with outgoing US First Lady Jill Biden about fostering US-UK relations.
Focus on Bilateral Relations
During their meeting, William and Trump discussed the significance of the US-UK partnership. This marks another step in William’s diplomatic efforts, following his participation in this year’s D-Day commemoration in Normandy.
A Legacy of Leadership
Prince William’s visit to Paris reflects his growing role on the global stage, symbolized by his presence at events of historical and cultural importance. The Notre Dame reopening, a milestone of resilience, provided the perfect backdrop for fostering international unity and goodwill.