Amedi calls confidence vote a ‘pivotal milestone’, urges swift completion of cabinet

BAGHDAD — President Nizar Amedi on Thursday described parliament’s vote approving Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s cabinet as “a pivotal national milestone and a highly important constitutional step toward consolidating political stability, strengthening Iraq’s security and sovereignty, and unifying efforts to confront current challenges.”

Amedi congratulated Zaidi and the approved ministers and said he looked forward to “completing the ministerial cabinet as soon as possible, in a way that ensures an effective launch in implementing the government program and achieving the aspirations of Iraqis.”

He also thanked outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and his government “for the efforts they made during the past stage, and their dedication in managing their responsibilities and serving our people.”

Parliament approved 14 ministers Thursday during a session attended by 266 lawmakers before Zaidi and the cabinet took the constitutional oath. Several ministries remain unresolved, with confidence withheld from nominees for planning, higher education, interior, construction and housing and culture. Voting on defense, labor, migration and youth and sports was postponed pending further political agreements.