After months of torturous negotiations, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri has succeeded in forming a government. Prime Minister Hariri told reporters, "finally, a government of national unity is born".

In June, Saad Hariri's pro-western alliance won the general election but two earlier attempts to create an inclusive cabinet failed. A government with representatives from all the main parties is seen as the key to maintaining stability in Lebanon, a country riven by sectarian and political tensions. Earlier negotiations ended in stalemate after the various parties fail to agree on the division of ministerial posts.
 

Under the coalition agreement, Prime Minister Hariri's alliance will supply 15 ministers, the Hizbollah block have been given 10 posts and President Michel Suleiman will appoint the remaining five ministers.