Thailand is lucky to have Abhisit as PM : Prem

"In the past years, people are not happy and it is fortunate for the country to have installed the new prime minister who I am confident can overcome the turmoil," he said in his New Year greetings.

Abhisit led his Cabinet members to call on Prem to wish him a Happy New Year.

Prem said he had no doubts that Abhisit would succeed in putting politics back on course even though he had to overcome so many political hurdles.

He urged the government to administer the country under five principles - endurance, tolerance, sacrifice, lead by example and winning the people's trust.

He said he knew that Abhisit and Cabinet members would have no easy job in facing tough challenges ahead. He wished them every success in striving to serve the country, the King and the people.

After receiving Prem's blessing, Abhisit said he felt heartened for the moral support.

He said he was committed to steer the country out of the turmoil and end social divisions.

The government would work hard to advace the country forward without bickering with opponents, including the red shirt crowds, he said.

"This is the time to get work done and not quarrelling," he said. He said his administration was ready to move full steam after the announcement of policy statement before Parliament, scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.

The first two months of 2009 will be a crucial period for the government to lift the confidence by revitalising the economy, he said. Should this proceed as planned, the country has a fair chance to resume normalcy, he added.

He vowed not to fail in meeting the people's aspirations.