BEIRUT: Najib Mikati, the Lebanese billionaire was named as Lebanon's new Prime Minister with 72 votes in parliament following months of political turmoil in the crises-hit country. On appointment, Mikati said he would work to form a government and implement a French plan to save the country from its crippling financial crisis. He gave a speech following his appointment, calling upon all political parties to cooperate with him on finding the right solutions to the country's crises.

"The vote of confidence by MPs is necessary for my appointment but I am keen to gain the confidence of the Lebanese population, every man and woman, and the youths," Mikati said at Baabda Palace after his meeting with President Michel Aoun. Mikati said he has received international guarantees and he aims to implement the French initiative. "I do not have a magic wand; this is a very difficult mission. It will succeed only if we manage to cooperate together by avoiding political bickering and useless accusations," he said.

Most of Lebanon's political parties supported Mikati's premiership, including the Future Movement, Amal Movement, Hezbollah, Marada Movement and Progressive Socialist Party. However, Mikati faced opposition from the country's two main Christian parties, the Free Patriotic Movement and the Lebanese Forces.

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