United Nations, Sep 9 (IANS) UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon Monday welcomed the formation of a new government in Iraq, saying that it "is a positive step towards political stability and peace in the country".

"The secretary-general welcomes today's announcement of the formation of a new inclusive government in Iraq and congratulates Haider al-Abadi on his confirmation as Iraq's prime minister," Xinhua quoted a statement issued here by Ban's spokesman.

"At this challenging moment for Iraq and the region, today's decision by the Iraqi Council of Representatives is a positive step towards political stability and peace in the country."

Earlier Monday, the Iraqi parliament approved the new cabinet of Prime Minister al-Abadi and his government program for the next four years, leaving key security portfolios unfilled due to political disputes, namely the defence and interior ministers. Al-Abadi requested an additional week to name them.