Iraq's four presidential institutions urge swift formation of new government

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's four presidential institutions issued a joint statement calling for the new cabinet to be completed without delay. The statement was issued by the Presidency, the Prime Minister's Office, the Iraqi Parliament and the Supreme Judicial Council. The institutions said the political and service-related challenges facing the country require the government to be formed promptly. They called on political parties to fulfill their responsibilities in identifying a prime minister-designate and accelerating the distribution of ministerial portfolios. The formation of the new government remains on the agenda of parliamentary sessions, with negotiations between the parties continuing. The statement also said a decisive cabinet is needed to improve public services and restore economic stability. The joint position of the four presidential institutions adds pressure on political blocs to reach an agreement on the makeup of the next government. No further details on the timeline or structure of the cabinet were immediately available.