Secretary-General Welcomes Announcement of Iraq’s New Government

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes today’s announcement of a new Government in Baghdad, which has been approved by Iraq’s Council of Representatives, and congratulates Nuri al-Maliki on his confirmation as Prime Minister.  This represents a major step forward in Iraq’s democratic progress.  The Secretary-General also congratulates Iraq’s political leaders for their concerted efforts to ensure that the new Government is inclusive, broadly participatory and has the support of the people of Iraq.  He calls on them to continue working in the spirit of national unity to swiftly conclude the Government-formation process and address the major challenges that face the country, including national reconciliation, reconstruction and long-term stability.  In accordance with its comprehensive Security Council mandate, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) will continue to support the people and Government of Iraq in building a prosperous and peaceful Iraq.

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For information media • not an official record