Hariri says 'breakthrough' in cabinet formation a matter of days

Beirut - Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri said Saturday he expected a breakthrough in a "few days" in the bid to form the long-awaited national unity cabinet. After meeting Lebanese President Michel Suleiman, Hariri said: "A breakthrough will take place after the continued discussions in the coming few days."

Hariri said he had briefed the president about the discussions on forming a cabinet and that "things are advancing. Everyone wants to see a new cabinet as soon as possible."

On the other hand, Hariri said relations with Christian hardliner MP Michel Aoun, who is close to the Hezbollah-led opposition, were improving.

Hariri concluded that it is most important that everyone realizes that Lebanon's interest lies in forming a national unity government as soon as possible.

Hariri has been struggling to form a national unity government in the country for four months after emerging as the winner of the country's national elections last June.

While Hariri is assured of a majority in parliament in order to lead a cabinet, the Hezbollah-led opposition has been putting up obstacles chiefly aimed at securing veto powers.