Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has opened Europe’s tallest building, 261-meter-high Istanbul Sapphire. The project was estimated at $250 million.

In his speech Turkish Premier expressed gratitude to creators of new Istanbul’s symbol, noting the city has major achievements in all fields, Turkish Hurriyet newspaper reports.

The ceremony was accompanied by a protest action held by “Young opposition” organization members who protested against violation of safety rules during the construction works.