Kasabah,Tunisia - Tunisia's new prime minister, Hamadi Jebali, assumed duty on  Monday at Kasabah, in replacement of Béji Caid Essebsi, the Tunisian News Agency (TAP) reported. He said he was aware of the responsibility placed on the new government as a result of the challenges facing the country.

"The success of the revolution, democracy and transparency marked by the 23 October elections are some of many assets of the new government's mission," he declared.

"I am convinced that the Tunisian administration, businessmen and trades union organization will not spare any effort to place the country's interests beyond any consideration," Mr. Jebali added.

He expressed his gratitude to his predecessor and members of the outgoing government for their efforts at this critical stage of the country's history to esnure the continuity of State institutions.

He also hailed the efforts of the army and national security for the role they have played since the 14 January revolution.

Pana 27/12/2011