Lebanese system based on consensus, requires all participation: Michel Aoun

Lebanese President Michel Aoun said the formation of a new government was faster than expected, Hezbollah's al-Manar TV and the presidency's Twitter feed reported.

A final agreement over the formation of a national unity government has yet to be announced, more than seven months since a general election. Prime Minister-designate Saad al-Hariri earlier said he hoped it would be finalised on Friday.

"The government formation was faster than expected because the Lebanese system is based on consensus and requires the participation of everyone," Aoun was quoted as telling visitors.