TEHRAN, Jun 14, 2011 (AFP) - Iran has congratulated Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati on his new government, in which Hezbollah and its allies hold the majority, the official IRNA news agency reported Tuesday.
"In a telephone conversation, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Rahimi congratulated Mikati and the Lebanese people on the formation of the new government," IRNA said.
Mikati revealed his line-up on Monday following arduous negotiations over key portfolios including justice and telecommunications, now controlled by the Syrian- and Iranian-backed Hezbollah alliance.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its desire to remain a partner to Lebanon, and is ready to implement the agreements signed between the two countries" to strengthen bilateral ties, the report quoted Rahimi as telling Mikati.
Tehran is the main supporter of Hezbollah, which dominates the new government with allies.
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Copyright AFP 2011.
