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WE:Business Development (Energy and Utilities)
Re: Though the negotiation was initially expected to proceed
[#permalink]
06 Nov 2017, 18:33
Explanation
The pivot word though tells you that the negotiation did not actually proceed smoothly.
The first blank comes after “appearance of,” which indicates fake behavior. The word disingenuous backs up that meaning. You need something positive — the parties are showing false amity, or friendliness, out of a “superficial” adherence to customs or rules — mores.
Amity, mores.