Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has sent a condolence cable to President Emmanuel Macron of France over the devastating fire that broke out at the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral on April 15. The message reads, in part:

“Honorable Mr. President,

We are shocked by the tragedy in Paris. The Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the most prominent and favorite symbols of European civilization and the whole of Christendom.

For us, the Armenians, it is a unique embodiment of the French culture and spiritual heritage, which is identified with Paris and its centuries-old history.

Armenia joins the French people in their feelings. At the same time, we do hope that the necessary steps will be taken to reinstate the Cathedral in its former look through joint effort.”