Trump Tower opens in Vancouver amid protests, with Trump brothers and Tiffany Trump on hand

The grand opening of the Trump International Hotel and Tower Vancouver (1161 West Georgia Street) took place this morning, despite the presence of a large crowd of protesters who gathered at the front of the building.

Three of U.S. President Donald Trump’s offspring were on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony—Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Tiffany Trump were all present for the tower’s official opening, accompanied by other members of their family and U.S. secret service agents.

The two brothers took turns giving short speeches in a room full of local and international media outlets.

“I’d like to thank the press… Just kidding,” said Donald Trump Jr. “It’s great to see you here, I’m shocked. I’m absolutely shocked.”

It is unclear why Trump Jr. would sarcastically joke that he is shocked to see media attend the invite-only press conference, when his PR team invited the whole lot.

Eric went on to give a few remarks about how the Trump family has developed many great properties around the world, and that the Vancouver Trump building is now part of its prestigious portfolio.

“Vancouver is truly one of the great cities in the world, and it is fitting for the Trump brand. It’s something that we hold in the highest esteem,” said Eric Trump. “That’s what our father’s vision was all about, creating the most iconic buildings anywhere in the world.”

Joo Kim Tiah, CEO of TA Global Bhd., owner and developer of the Trump Tower Vancouver, also spoke to media at the press conference.

“I would like to thank the City of Vancouver for giving me the opportunity to prove myself, and [for] approving this project and allowing me to help shape the skyline of this beautiful city,” said Tiah.

In his speech, Tiah also made sure to thank his parents—his father, Tony Tiah, is one of Malaysia’s wealthiest businessmen—who were sitting in the front row.

The Trump family made a swift exit after the ribbon-cutting, and no questions from reporters were taken.

The Trump Tower was designed by the late Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, and the twisting structure that cost $360 million to build features 147 guest rooms and suites. It is also home to nightclub Drai’s Vancouver, Hong Kong-based Chinese restaurant Mott 32, the Trump Champagne Lounge, and the Spa by Ivanka Trump. 

Scroll through the photos below for a look at what the Trump Tower grand opening was like.