However, in response to Panetta’s allegations, the Pakistani authorities warned the US spymaster that such allegations by Washington would further damage its already strained ties with Islamabad.
Panetta, who reached Islamabad on Friday evening on an unannounced visit, had a crucial late night meeting with army chief General Ashfaq Kayani and ISI chief Lt General Ahmad Shuja Pasha.
Sources said the Pakistani officials refuted the CIA chief’s claims and said it was not possible that anyone from inside the Pakistani intelligence apparatus could have passed on such vital information to the militants. “Pakistani officials told Panetta that such allegations will further harm the bilateral ties,” he said.
