In a clear sign that the crisis between Pakistan and Iran is de-escalating, Islamabad today expressed its willingness to cooperate with Iran on “all issues” in a communication between the two foreign ministers of the two countries.

The development comes after both countries engaged in an exchange of drone and missile attacks on militant bases.

Iran announced that since Thursday’s Pakistan strikes nine people were killed in a border village in his territory, including four children. Pakistan said Tuesday’s Iranian attack killed two children.

There was no immediate comment from Iran on the talks.

On Friday, Pakistan said a telephone conversation took place between Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

“Foreign Minister Jilani expressed Pakistan’s readiness to work with Iran on all issues based on the spirit of mutual trust and cooperation,” the statement said.

“They also agreed to de-escalate the situation. The return of the ambassadors of the two countries to their capitals was also discussed.”

According to Iranian state media, Amirabdollahian said: “Pakistan’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity are of great concern to us, and bilateral cooperation is essential to neutralize and destroy terrorist camps on Pakistani soil.”

The phone call came as Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister Anwar ul Haq Khaqar was convening the National Security Committee, with the participation of all the chiefs of the military services, a source in his office said.

Kakar cut short his stay at the World Economic Forum in Davos and returned to Pakistan on Thursday. His office said Pakistan and Iran could mutually overcome the problems through dialogue and diplomacy. “It is in the interest of both countries to take steps to restore their relationship as it was before January 16” and “Pakistan will welcome and reciprocate any positive steps” taken by Tehran, he added.