Ma Ying-jeou sworn in as Taiwan's president
Posted: 20 May 2008 0910 hrs

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TAIPEI - Ma Ying-jeou took the oath of office Tuesday as Taiwan's new president, two months after sweeping to victory on a pledge to mend relations with rival China.

"I vow to the people of the country that I will abide by the constitution to devote myself in serving the country," Ma swore, his hand raised facing toward the national flag.

Ma, 57, succeeds Chen Shui-bian as president after defeating his pro-independence party in the elections.

His presidency returns the China-friendly Kuomintang (KMT) party to power after eight years under the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

"I will faithfully perform my duties, promote the welfare of the people, safeguard the security of the country, and will in no way betray the people's trust," Ma said, reading an oath of office.

"Should I break my oath, I shall be willing to submit myself to severe punishment by the country. This is my solemn oath."

Foreign diplomats were among those gathered to witness the swearing in at the presidential office. Parliament speaker Wang Jin-pyne took Taiwan's two national seals from outgoing president Chen and handed it to Ma, to symbolize the transfer of power.

Vice-President Vincent Siew was then sworn in.

Ma also swore in his Cabinet led by premier Liu Chao-shiuan, and named Su Chi as chief of the national security council and Chan Chun-po as presidential secretary general. - AFP/ir