The incoming prime minister also warned Iraq's neighbors against interfering in security matters inside the country. He did not elaborate.
Al-Maliki was nominated for the post of prime minister on April 22. He said he hoped to have his cabinet line-up ready for submission to parliament within the next 15 days, and added that all the ministry posts would be open to appointments from all parties and religious affiliations.
Al-Maliki has been under heavy American pressure to form a government quickly in order and rein in the increasing sectarian and insurgent violence.
(Reuters, AP)