Ban hails Iraqi new government as ‘major step’ in democratic progress

TEHRAN, Dec. 22 (MNA) -- The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the announcement of a new government in Baghdad as “a major step forward in Iraq’s democratic progress” on Tuesday and urged that prompt attention is given to the national reconciliation, reconstruction and long-term stability.

Ban Ki-moon, who has repeatedly called for a broad-based government since elections in March, 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, a statement issued by his spokesman at UN Headquarters in New York said.

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, the statement added.

The Secretary-General pledged continued support from the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for the people and Government “in building a prosperous and peaceful Iraq”.

On the eve of the Government’s formation last week, in a move Ban called a “milestone” on the country’s path to normality.