About forty heads of state from all over the world traveled to the reopening of Notre Dame in Paris on Saturday evening. Chancellor Karl Nehammer spoke beforehand about the importance of the reconstruction and who he wanted to talk to.
Mr. Chancellor, Notre Dame rises like a phoenix from the ashes, how true is that?
Notre Dame represents Europe’s Christian heritage and is a place of meeting, prayer and reflection. It is incredible how successful the reconstruction has been. It is a great moment for our European identity that the church opens. It is a strong symbol that even after a crisis it can be overcome and there is trust.
Many heads of state and government are in Paris, who are you going to speak to?
On Saturday I met President Selenksy and talked about the war and suffering in Ukraine. On the other hand, I told him about the phone conversation with the American president. It was also about ways in which the war could end.
Donald Trump is visiting. What significance does this have from your point of view?
Anything that helps bring the US and Europe a little closer together is a good thing. The US is an important country for security and economy. When the opportunity arises, I will of course seek out the conversation.
The images of the burning cathedral went around the world in 2019. What did you think then?
It affected me personally very much. Before we got married, I was often here in Paris with my wife. The city means a lot to us and Notre Dame is always the centerpiece of a visit.
What do you say to Emmanuel Macron?
Today is a day of congratulations. It is not easy to renovate such a historic building like this.
Do you know if Mr. Macron used the boxing gloves you gave him?
He has his own and trains a lot himself. Maybe I’ll get a chance to ask him.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
