By Vakkas Dogantekin
ANKARA (AA) – President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Tuesday he is “deeply upset ” after a fire gutted Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.
“The fire that spread through Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the symbols of Paris and the common heritage of humanity, has deeply upset us, ” Erdogan tweeted in French.
“In my name and in the name of my people, I convey to the French people my wishes for recovery, ” he added.
Turkey joined the rest of the world in expressing dismay over the massive fire which engulfed the historic church on Monday.
“The destruction of this masterpiece of architecture is a catastrophe for the entire humanity, ” Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu tweeted.
“It is with very heavy hearts that we received the devastating news about the fire in Paris, France. The Notre Dame Cathedral is not just a symbol of France but part of humanity’s shared heritage, ” presidential communications director Fahrettin Altun tweeted.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, however, initial investigation has ruled out arson as a possibility.
One of the most important touristic spots of Paris, Notre Dame — which means 'Our Lady' — dates back to the 14th century.
