Haneya told reporters after his government was sworn in that "President Mahmoud Abbas would attend the first cabinet meeting of the first ever national unity government."

"Tomorrow (Sunday), the Palestinian government would head its way towards applying its Palestinian plans and agendas," Haneya said, welcoming a Norwegian decision to end the embargo imposed on the Palestinians.

He expressed extreme optimism, adding "We are optimistic ... very optimistic."

Twenty five ministers, including Prime Minister Ismail Haneya of Hamas, sworn in before Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Gaza city and Ramallah Saturday evening.

As Israel prevents Hamas ministers from traveling between Gaza and West Bank, the oath taking ceremony was held in the two cities via video conference link.

Haneya and 12 ministers swore in Gaza city while Azzam al-Ahamd,the deputy premier, took the oath in Ramallah with 11 ministers.

24 ministers were Muslims and took the oath over the holy book of Quran. In Ramallah, the only Christian minister swore over the Bible.

The ceremony was held hours after the parliament voted 83-3 of confidence on the first Palestinian coalition government that comprises Hamas and Fatah rivals.

The popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and an independent lawmaker voted of no confidence.

Israel holds 41 legislators, mostly from Hamas, out of the 132 members.

The government was formed after Hamas and Fatah reached a power-sharing deal, ending months of fighting that erupted since Hamas took office last year.