ISLAMABAD: US Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday called Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif assuring him of America’s continued cooperation with Pakistan and with the new government in the country.

Kerry congratulated the prime minister on taking the office and the two discussed matters of regional significance.

Kerry praised Pakistan's role in efforts to establish peace in the region, whereas Prime Minister Sharif laid emphasis on strengthening the strategic dialogue between the two countries.

Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) was elected the country’s 18th prime minister on June 5.

Sharif returned to power after surviving a military coup, a seven-year exile to Saudi Arabia and a government dismissal. His party secured majority in the May 11 elections making him the only leader to assume power for the third time.