BEIRUT, 16 April 2005 — Lebanon’s president yesterday named moderate pro-Syrian lawmaker Najib Mikati, an opposition-backed former public works minister, as prime minister.

The announcement by President Emile Lahoud’s spokesman came two days after Prime Minister-designate Omar Karami gave up his efforts to form a Cabinet after nearly seven weeks.

Mikati won the position after Lahoud polled legislators or their representatives from the 128-member Parliament.

Rafik Shalala said the president consulted with the speaker of Parliament about the results and then summoned Mikati to the presidential palace and asked him to form the next government.

Mikati said he gained the support of 57 lawmakers, the largest number of votes.

The number of those who backed his opponent, staunchly pro-Syrian Defense Minister Abdul-Rahim Murad, was not disclosed.

The government’s main task now is to steer an electoral bill through Parliament and call a crucial election. Opposition figures have said they feel confident the vote will end pro-Syrian dominance of the legislature.

“We will be the symbol of moderation and national unity,” Mikati declared from the presidential palace after being appointed by the president.

“I say it from here that the hand is extended and the heart is open so that we all cooperate in the Lebanese interest,” he said.

Mikati set three main priorities for his Cabinet: Parliamentary elections; following up on an international investigation into Hariri’s assassination; and reviving the flagging Lebanese economy.

Mikati said he wanted to restore confidence in Lebanon and encourage domestic and foreign investment.

He said he would start consultations to form a Cabinet within days.

Although the opposition is largely anti-Syrian, it broke a boycott and backed Mikati apparently to block Murad from being designated premier, in hopes of boosting chances that crucial elections can go ahead next month. Opposition lawmakers have said they won a pledge from Mikati to work toward elections. Mikati thanked the opposition for its backing and for participation in the political process.

“We benefit today from the opposition’s wise decision,” he said.

— With input from agencies