Washington Welcomes Agreement of Lebanese Leaders to Form New Government

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department stated that the United States welcomes the agreement of Lebanese leaders on Friday to form a new government led by Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati. The spokesperson, Ned Price, said in a statement, "We urge the parliament to swiftly approve this new government so that it can work on implementing tangible reforms to address the deteriorating economic situation in Lebanon." He added, "We are ready to support this government in the hard work that lies ahead."