EU delegations to Turkey offer condolence to Paris

ANKARA

Representatives from the EU and its separate member states in Turkey offered their condolences on Tuesday for the fire at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Expressing ''our deep sadness over the fire in this iconic monument of art and history, one of the pillars of European culture," in their mutual statement on the tragic blaze that engulfed the centuries-old structure, the delegation said, "historical places of worship are our common values and a cultural heritage of the entire world."

President Emmanuel Macron pledged to rebuild the cathedral and has launched a national fundraising campaign for the restoration.

One of the city’s most important tourist spots, Notre Dame -- meaning 'Our Lady' -- dates back to the 14th century.

*Writing by Dilara Hamit