Two freed American aid workers told today of their terror during months of Taliban captivity, their dramatic rescue at the hands of anti-Taliban troops and American special forces and their hopes for a free Afghanistan.

Eight foreign aid workers in Afghanistan charged with trying to convert Muslims to Christianity expect a verdict in their trial next week and remain in good spirits, their lawyer said today.

A Supreme Court chief justice in Afghanistan told eight foreign aid workers today that they would be treated fairly, and that the threat of a US military assault would not play a part in their trial on charges of preaching Christianity.

The trial of eight foreign aid workers in Afghanistan charged with preaching Christianity is expected to resume on Saturday.