BEIRUT, Sept. 3 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's new Army Commander Gen. Jean Kahwaji has urged his troops to work on preserving stability and reclaiming occupied lands, local Daily star reported Wednesday.

    "Reclaiming occupied lands and preserving security and stability should be your first priority," Kahwaje urged in his first address to his troops on Tuesday.

    He also called on the troops to provide the right atmosphere for the practice of democracy and public freedom according to the constitution and law.

    "Do not bow to difficulties" and more efforts should be given to end Israeli violation of Lebanese territories, he said, reminding the army to defend south Lebanon, parts of which are still occupied by Israel.

    The new army commander was appointed Friday by the Lebanese cabinet and assumed his duties on Monday during a ceremony at the Defense Ministry.

    Kahwaji took the command from Chief of Staff Gen. Shawqi al-Masri, who had been serving as acting army commander since May 25 when President Michel Suleiman was elected the president of the country.