The prime minister-designate Najib Mikati called Thursday on all the political parties to contribute to the national salvation program, noting that he believes the Lebanese can cooperate to prevent the total collapse of the nation.

Securing 54 votes, Mikati was designated by President Michel Aoun after the binding parliamentary consultations held at Baabda Palace. His competitor Nawaf Salam obtained only 25 votes.

Mikati, who had held a trilateral meeting with President Michel Aoun and House Speaker Nabih Berri, underscored the importance of reinforcing the implementation of the salvation plan.

It is worth noting that 46 lawmakers refrained from nominating any candidate during the binding parliamentary consultations, which had started early Thursday.

It is worth noting that the parliament set Monday and Tuesday as two dates for the non-binding parliamentary consultations after which Mikati will be concerned with forming the new government.

Source: Al-Manar English Website