BAGHDAD, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) on Thursday welcomed the parliament approval of most of Mustafa al-Kadhimi's ministers.
It also urged to complete the formation of the cabinet to address the country's challenges.
"The government faces an uphill battle, and there is no time to spare. Confronting the economic crisis, further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and falling oil prices, is a top priority," said a statement by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert.
However, there are also other long-standing challenges that "must also be tackled without delay. These include adequate public service delivery, fighting corruption, strengthening governance as well as justice and accountability," Hennis-Plasschaert said.
Hennis-Plasschaert, who is also UNAMI chief, reaffirmed continued UN support to the Iraqi government in addressing the country's challenges.
"The United Nations stands ready to assist in identifying the opportunities and tackling the challenges, and working in partnership with Iraqis to build a prosperous and stable future for their country," she said.
Hennis-Plasschaert's statement came hours after al-Kadhimi was sworn in as the new prime minister in Iraq following the approval of the parliament on most of his cabinet members.
"It is a difficult stage. The challenges that Iraq faces are great ... but they are not greater than our ability to address them," al-Kadhimi said in his address to the parliament before the voting.
After al-Kadhimi's swearing-in, he vowed to "work with the ministerial team to win the trust and support of the people. I hope that all political parties will unite to face difficult challenges." Enditem
