Donald Trump hails Pakistan PM as 'terrific guy' and offers to help solve the country's problems

US president-elect Donald Trump has offered to help solve Pakistan's problems and praised Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif as a "terrific guy".

Mr Trump's office said the two leaders had a "productive conversation about how the United States and Pakistan will have a strong working relationship in the future", during the first call between the two men.

Although the US and Pakistan have been historical allies, relations between Washington and Islamabad have deteriorated in recent years over US accusations that Pakistan shelters Islamist militants.

Mr Sharif's office said in a statement: "President Trump said 'Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif you have a very good reputation. You are a terrific guy. You are doing amazing work which is visible in every way.

"'I am ready and willing to play any role that you want me to play to address and find solutions to the outstanding problems. It will be an honour and I will personally do it'."

Donald Trump proposed to help Pakistan solve some of its problems. Credit: Reuters

The prime minister's office did not elaborate on which type of problems Mr Trump offered to solve.

Mr Trump's office said: "President-elect Trump...noted that he is looking forward to a lasting and strong personal relationship with PrimeMinister Sharif."

In reference to an invitation from Mr Sharif for the US president-elect to visit Pakistan, the statement added: "Mr Trump said that he would love to come to a fantastic country, fantastic place of fantastic people.

"Please convey to the Pakistani people that they are amazing and all Pakistanis I have known are exceptional people."

Mr Trump's warm words could ease concerns about his proposed policy towards the Muslim world.

During his presidential campaign, the New York billionaire proposed banning Muslims from entering the US, but he later appeared to soften his tone on the proposal.