BAGHDAD, July 24 (Xinhua) -- Visiting United Nations Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday called for the formation of a " thoroughly inclusive" government in Iraq as the country grapples with increasing violence and chaos.

"Iraq is facing an existential threat but it can be overcome through the formation of a thoroughly inclusive government," Ban told a joint press conference after his meeting with Iraq Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki.

It must be a government "that can address the concerns of all communities, including security, political, social and economic matters... (and) in which all Iraqis, regardless of background, feel represented," the UN chief said.

He also urged Iraqi political leaders to "fulfill their responsibilities to ensure that the government formation process falls within the constitutional timetable."

"It is important for all leaders to fully engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with one another, to successfully counter terrorism, strengthen democratic political processes and institutions, respect the rule of law and human rights, and promote inclusive development," Ban said.

Maliki confirmed that the Iraqi authorities will respect the time table of the political process and that the country is on the path of democracy despite facing a violent Islamist insurgency.

"We have assured the Secretary General that the political process is ongoing and we continue to adhere to the constitution and its obligations despite the obstacles that hamper Iraq," Maliki told the news conference.

"We are working, according to the results of the (April 30) elections of the Council of Representatives, and managed to elect the Speaker and today to elect the new president of the republic who will request the new prime minister," Maliki said, a few hours before the parliament voted in Fuad Masoum to be declared the new President of Iraq.