Lebanon’s new cabinet holds 1st meeting, vows more efforts for reforms

   BEIRUT, Jan. 22  -- The new Lebanese cabinet on Wednesday held its first meeting chaired by President Michel Aoun who called for more efforts for reforms.
   Aoun announced the formation of a ministerial committee to prepare a statement that includes the government's strategy and programs.
   The government must submit the ministerial statement within 30 days of its formation to win a vote of confidence by the parliament.
   During the meeting, the president urged the new cabinet to start dealing with Lebanon's economic and financial crises to restore the confidence of the international community, according to a statement by the Presidency.
   "The cabinet has been formed amid very tough economic circumstances, which requires extra efforts to restore the confidence of the Lebanese people and the international community," Aoun said.
   Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab said the country is facing the most dangerous period in its history, vowing his government will work for the interest of all Lebanese instead of just a political party.
   Diab highlighted the need to preserve stability which is at the core of restoring the Lebanese confidence in the state.
   "We assure that democracy will remain protected by listening to people's concerns because the Lebanese population is the first source of power," he said.
   The new prime minister also promised the Lebanese their right to protest when reforms are not being implemented because of political bickering.
   "This cabinet will not get into any political disagreements because we are not a political government. It will be an exceptional government in its way of work and achievements," he noted.
   Diab announced the formation of a new cabinet of 20 ministers on Tuesday, around a month after his appointment. Xinhua