The French prime minister has announced an international architects' competition to rebuild the spire of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Edouard Philippe is speaking following a special Cabinet meeting Wednesday focusing held by French President Emmanuel Macron on the reconstruction of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Philippe said the competition aims at "giving Notre Dame a spire adapted to techniques and challenges of our times."

He said authorities have no estimation yet of the total cost of the renovation work. Macron said Tuesday he wants the cathedral to be rebuilt by five years.

Philippe said: "This is obviously a huge challenge, a historic responsibility."