Shock, prayers around the world for Notre Dame Cathedral

May stands with France during "terrible blaze"

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Monday her thoughts were with France as fire devastated the centuries-old Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

"My thoughts are with the people of France tonight and with the emergency services who are fighting the terrible blaze at Notre-Dame Cathedral," May, who is currently on holiday, said on Twitter.

Merkel says saddened by Notre Dame cathedral fire

Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday has said she was deeply saddened by the Notre Dame cathedral fire in Paris.

Government spokesman Steffen Seibert tweeted on behalf of Merkel: "It hurts to see these horrible pictures of the burning Notre Dame. Notre Dame is a symbol of France and of our European culture. Our thoughts are with French friends."