Assad underscores anti-corruption efforts

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has underscored the efforts exerted to fight corruption in the war-torn country.

In a speech addressing the new government, the President said on Wednesday that what has been achieved in the fight against corruption is "very important", reports Xinhua news agency.

He however, acknowledged that such efforts are not enough and that "we still have a long road because corruption is rampant".

Regarding the Western sanctions and economic siege, Assad said the best way to confront the siege is to support production in the country.

He said that agricultural production comes first because "the Syrian society is an agricultural one for thousands of years" and the country has accumulated experiences in agriculture.

Agricultural production can also create plenty of job opportunities and achieve food security, which is the "most important factor of steadfastness", he added.

The new Syrian government was sworn in on Wednesday amid hopes that it could help in enhancing the livelihood of the Syrians, who are struggling with skyrocketing prices and tough economic situation.

The new government's formation was ordered by the President on August 30, keeping top Ministers unchanged.

According to Syrian law, the formation of a new government follows the parliamentary elections which took place in July this year.