KIEV: Ukraine’s Parliament approved the formation of a new government on Tuesday, bringing an end to weeks of behind-the-scenes political wrangling following an October election that ushered in a group of ardently pro-Western parties.

The cabinet approved by lawmakers will be headed Arseniy Yatsenyuk, 40, who has served as prime minister since February. Five political blocs, including Yatsenyuk’s Popular Front party, last month formed a parliamentary coalition that has vowed to enact an agenda of drastic economic and political reform.

“We are prepared for the most radical and toughest changes in this country. This mission will be completed,” Yatsenyuk said in a speech in parliament before the vote on the cabinet.

Yatsenyuk said social assistance spending had been reduced by $300 million this year and that the trend was set to continue.

Published in Dawn December 3rd , 2014