China hails formation of Iraq's new government

China's Foreign Ministry hailed the formation of Iraq's new government on Tuesday, calling it "important progress in the process of Iraq's political reconciliation."

China hopes that all parties in Iraq enhance unity, address challenges together, promote political reconciliation and economic reconstruction to restore national security, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a daily press briefing.

On Monday, the Iraqi parliament approved Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's new cabinet and his government program for the next four years, leaving key security portfolios unfilled due to political disputes.

According to the Iraqi constitution, Abadi has 30 days to pick his cabinet following his official nomination as prime minister by Iraqi President Fuad Masoum on Aug 11.

Hua said China is ready to strengthen cooperation with the new government and deepen cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit so as to forge better ties.

China is also willing to continue to provide assistance to Iraq within its capabilities and in line with Iraq's needs, she said.