France Saturday welcomed the formation of a new government in Lebanon and said it was an important step to confront challenges facing the Arab country.French President Francois Hollande congratulates his Lebanese counterpart Michel Sleiman, Prime Minister-designate Tammam Salam and to everybody who contributed to the formation of the government, a statement by the presidency said.Hollande, who reaffirmed support to Lebanon, called on the international community to provide all possible assistance to Lebanon.He hoped the "spirit of responsibility" would continue in Lebanon towards the holding of presidential elections. Hollande commended outgoing prime minister Najib Mikati who made sure Lebanon meet its international obligations during his tenure. Sleiman assigned Salam to form a cabinet last Apri.