She also reiterated the world community’s “long-standing concern about ongoing deficiencies in Pakistan’s implementation of its anti-money laundering (and) counter-terrorism finance regime”. Curtis made the trip against the backdrop of reports that both sides are making behind-the-scenes efforts to address strains in bilateral ties and fears of a complete breakdown. Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal has said that Pakistan and the US are “trying to find common ground in their bilateral relations, which is happening outside the public glare”. The low-key dialogue between the two sides commenced soon after the US suspended military assistance worth nearly $2 billion following Trump’s New Year tweet accusing Pakistan of deception. The dialogue between the Pentagon and the Pakistan Army is believed to be continuing between Centcom Commander Gen Joseph Votel and army chief Gen Qamar Bajwa.

Source: Hindustan Times February 27, 2018 14:17 UTC