ISLAMABAD: During a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Imran Khan and US President Donald Trump, the latter has thanked the former for efforts in facilitating the release of an American and an Australian hostages in Afghanistan.

Imran Khan conveyed that the release of Western hostages, Profs Kevin King and Timothy Weeks, in Afghanistan was a positive development and Pakistan was happy that they were safe and free. President Trump also termed this a positive outcome.

Both the leaders discussed bilateral and regional issues and further agreed to remain in close contact.

Pakistan and the US have agreed to continue work together for the promotion of shared objective of establishment of peace in Afghanistan.

Also Read: Pakistan welcomes release of US, Australian hostages in Afghanistan: Imran Khan

The prime minister re-affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the advancement of Afghan peace and reconciliation process for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

On Nov 19, he had said Pakistan had fully supported and facilitated the release, as part of its policy of supporting initiatives for a negotiated political settlement of the Afghan conflict.

BBC News has quoted Taliban sources as saying that the hostages were released in exchange for three senior militants.

PM Khan also apprised Trump of the current situation in the Indian held Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring that more than eight million people remained under siege for more than 100 days now.

Appreciating the president’s continued engagement as well as mediation offer, Imran Khan stressed that he must continue his efforts for facilitation of a peaceful solution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute.

Recalling their conversations in Washington and New York, the two leaders agreed to deepen bilateral collaboration, including in relevant multilateral fora.