Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle today (10 November) issued the following statement on the formation of a government of national unity in Lebanon:

“The formation of a new government in Lebanon led by Prime Minister Saad Hariri is a further step on the road to the political stabilization of that country. This is an encouraging sign not only for Lebanon but also for the region as a whole.

The task now is to ensure that all sides in Lebanon continue this path of dialogue responsibly and courageously in order to meet the major challenges facing the country.

Along with its EU partners, Germany will support Lebanon in that process.”

The cabinet, appointed yesterday, is made up of 15 ministers from Saad Hariri’s majority March 14 Alliance, ten from the opposition March 8 Alliance, and five selected by President Sleiman. According to the Lebanese constitution the government must present a programme and have it confirmed by parliament 30 days at the latest after the cabinet and the Prime Minister have been appointed by the President. Until then it acts as a caretaker government.

The parliamentary elections took place on 7 June 2009.