New Austrian chancellor officially sworn in

New Austrian Chancellor Christian Kern has officially been sworn in to his new role by President Heinz Fischer in Vienna on Tuesday.

Kern, former CEO of the Austrian Federal Railways, has been confirmed by his party, the Social Democratic Party, as the next chancellor for the country on Friday, following the resignation of Werner Faymann last Monday.

Fischer described the new chancellor's role as "large and wonderful, but also difficult and bearing responsibility."

He also noted the Austrian constitution calls for a "desired balance" in power between the head of state and the head of government, meaning both he and Kern would be on the same level.

Just prior to the swearing-in, Fischer also notified Vice Chancellor Reinhold Mitterlehner, who took on the role of acting chancellor following Faymann's surprise resignation, that he is now relieved of his temporary duty.

The three new ministers in Kern's cabinet as well as the new state secretary have also been invited by the president for an introductory meeting later in the evening, though their actual swearing-in will take place on Wednesday.

Source: XINHUA