I think its good that there are interactions between countries so that the internal politics can be better understood. Its a bit like leaks, oils the works. I think however Ahbib could have done it through the committee he chairs on US relations(from memory?)in a more formal manner. One wonders what advantage he was seeking? What advantage the US would offer for such close ties?
Its not lives at risk for the US as Huckerby/Turnbull/Gillard try to slant it, its all their little stoolies.