Monti forms new Italian government

NEW GOVERNMENT Italy's premier-designate Mario Monti speaks to the media after finishing his meetings with Italian political leaders and organizations' representatives at the Senate, in Rome, Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011. Monti will propose the new government to the Italian president Giorgio napolitano on Wednesday. AP PHOTO/GREGORIO BORGIA

ROME—Economist Mario Monti says he has succeeded in forming a government tasked with helping Italy escape financial disaster and will hold the posts both of premier and economic minister.

The Italian presidency says Monti will be sworn in as premier early Wednesday afternoon. His new Cabinet, whose names Monti was announcing, will also be sworn in.

In brief remarks, Monti says he is aiming to restart economic growth in Italy. He also pays tribute and respect to Silvio Berlusconi, who resigned on Saturday, bowing to market pressure.