Shafaqna English- The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris will re-open on December 5 following massive fire 5 years ago.
French President Macron who pledged to rebuild the cathedral within five years oversaw the completion of the approximately $1.08 billion (€1 billion) restoration, funded by global donations.
The opening ceremony will host 2,000 guests, including political leaders such as USA’s President Biden, President-elect Trump, and King Charles III, Europe 1 reported.
However, Russian President Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu were not invited, according to Elysee sources. Meanwhile, Pope Francis declined Macron’s invitation to attend as he will visit the French Mediterranean island of Corsica.
The Vatican announced that the 88-year-old pontiff would not join the Paris ceremony but will visit Corsica on December 15 for a conference on the Catholic faith in the Mediterranean.