Egypt voices support for Lebanon's new gov't after its parliamentary confidence vote victory

CAIRO, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Egypt reaffirmed on Thursday its solidarity with Lebanon and its commitment to supporting the Lebanese government and national institutions after the Lebanese government won a confidence vote in parliament.

In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry commended the step as crucial to restoring security and stability in Lebanon and maintaining the country's unity and sovereignty.

"This is a new stage for Lebanon to achieve the legitimate aspirations of the Lebanese people," the statement added.

Lebanon's new government, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, won a parliamentary confidence vote on Wednesday, gaining the support of 95 out of 128 lawmakers.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry also voiced support for the implementation of an agreement aimed at stopping hostilities in southern Lebanon and ensuring Israel's full withdrawal from the region.

Later in the day, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty had a phone call with Salam, during which Abdelatty expressed his willingness to strengthen cooperation with the Lebanese government in all fields to help restore the country's security, stability, and prosperity.

Salam said he "values Egypt's role in backing Lebanon and its keenness to maintain the unity of Lebanon." ■