VILNIUS, July 6 (Xinhua) -- Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda on Monday approved the composition of a new government led by Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius, paving the way for the cabinet to take office once it completes the required parliamentary procedures.
The new cabinet retains several ministers from the previous administration, including Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys, while introducing new faces to key portfolios.
The government was formed after Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene's cabinet resigned last month following a reshuffle of the ruling coalition. The governing Social Democratic Party ended its alliance with the Nemuno Ausra party and brought the Union of Democrats "For Lithuania" back into the coalition, making it necessary under Lithuanian law to form a new government.
Sinkevicius, who was approved as prime minister by parliament last week, said his government would focus on ensuring political stability, strengthening national security, and advancing economic and social reforms.
The new cabinet is expected to take office after the parliament gives final approval to its program. ■