Related story: Iraqi parl't approves new cabinet as violence kills dozens

    PARIS, May 22 (Xinhua) -- France hailed Monday the formation of the new Iraqi government and pledged support for stability of the country.

    "France hails the formation of the government in Iraq," French Foreign Ministry spokesman Jean-Baptiste Mattei said at a news conference.

    The new Iraqi government headed by Prime Minister Nouri K. Al-Maliki took office on Saturday.

    France had strongly opposed the US-led Iraqi war and didn't take part in the military coalition but voices support for the political normalization efforts of the country. Enditem