France Throws Weight behind New Unity Government
French President Nicolas Sarkozy congratulated Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Monday after he formed a national unity government following four months of negotiations with his rivals.
In a letter released by the Elysee palace, Sarkozy said he welcomed "this excellent news" and said the new government "meets the aspirations of the Lebanese people."
"Your government will be responsible for carrying out the reforms which are much anticipated by the people of Lebanon as well as the international community," he wrote.
Sarkozy invited Hariri to come to Paris "at time of your convenience."
French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner vowed to give the new government full support.
"I welcome the formation of a government of national unity in Lebanon and renew the trust and support of France for Prime Minister Saad Hariri," Kouchner said in a statement.
"Saad Hariri and his government can count on the resolute support of France, which will continue its actions in favor of unity and stability, and the sovereignty and independence of Lebanon," he said.