US army chief calls Kayani to discuss military ties

General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called Pakistani Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani to discuss with him military-to-military ties between the two countries, his spokesman has said.

"The call was cordial and professional. It is a routine part of the relationship and another opportunity to understand what is most important to each military as we confront common threats," said Colonel Dave Lapan, spokesman of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The Pentagon official indicated that the timing of the call had nothing to do with the latest developments going on inside Pakistan.

The call was planned well in advance.

"This call had been planned and occurred on Wednesday as the scheduling worked for both," Lapan said. The last call between the two before this one was on December 21.