New York, Dec 22 (DPA) UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Tuesday welcomed the new government in Iraq and congratulated Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki on his confirmation as head of the government.
"This represents a major step forward in Iraq's democratic progress," Ban said.
He congratulated Iraqi political leaders for their "concerted efforts to ensure that the new government is inclusive, broadly participatory and has the support of the people of Iraq".
The UN mission in Iraq will continue to support the people and government of Iraq in building a prosperous and peaceful country, Ban said.