Turkish defense chief speaks with French counterpart

By Hamdi Celikbas </p> <p>ANKARA (AA) – Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar spoke by phone Thursday with his French counterpart Florence Parly, Turkey’s Ministry of National Defense said in a statement. </p> <p>They discussed cooperation between their countries’ defense industries. </p> <p>Akar also expressed his sorrow over the massive fire Monday at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.</p> <p>The iconic landmark was severely damaged by the fire before it was extinguished following an eight-and-a-half-hour effort by 500 firemen.</p> <p>The inferno destroyed the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof and caused heavy damage to its interior. </p> <p>