BEIRUT — Lebanese President Joseph Aoun confirmed on Saturday that members of the newly formed government are independent of political parties and will work solely to serve the interests of the Lebanese people.

Expressing satisfaction with the formation of the government, Aoun congratulated Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and his ministers, wishing them success in their new roles.

He emphasized that the government, named the "Reform and Rescue Government," was established based on agreed-upon criteria with Salam.

“One of the most important of these criteria is that the government does not include ministers affiliated with political parties,” Aoun stated, underscoring the commitment to selecting ministers based on competence, experience, and specialization, as well as their strong reputations.

He highlighted that these criteria aim to ensure the government operates as a cohesive and unified team, focused on fulfilling the Lebanese people’s aspirations for a better future.

Reaffirming the administration's commitment to impartial governance, Aoun stressed that the government members will serve all Lebanese citizens, working solely in the national interest.

Earlier on Saturday, Aoun signed a decree formalizing the establishment of the 24-member government, which includes Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

Aoun, elected as Lebanon’s president on January 9, ended a prolonged presidential vacuum that had lasted over two years due to political deadlock. Days after his election, he tasked Salam, a former judge at the International Court of Justice, with forming the new government. — Agencies