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New Austrian chancellor expresses optimism for future

Xinhua, May 17, 2016 Adjust font size:

Austrian new Chancellor Christian Kern has given his first press conference in his new role on Tuesday, calling for the country to be "made strong again."

Kern, former CEO of the Austrian Federal Railways, made the appearance together with mayor of Vienna Michael Haeupl, just a few hours before he is due to be officially sworn in as chancellor by President Heinz Fischer in the early evening.

He had earlier in the day been officially confirmed as the replacement for outgoing chancellor and leader of the Social Democrats (SPOe) at a meeting of the SPOe caucus.

In his address to the media, Kern indicated his optimism in tackling the tasks that lay before his new government, that has seen several cabinet reshuffles. The new chancellor also said Austria must "return to the overtaking lane and become fit for the future."

He said the impetus behind his decision to take on the leadership of the country was based on a lack of substance in the politics of the SPOe in recent months, which would have ended in a "collision."

The new chancellor also extended a warm hand to coalition partner the People's Party (OeVP), and said he hoped they would get off to a good start together.

Following first talks with OeVP leader and Vice-Chancellor Reinhold Mitterlehner, he said he had a very good impression of the nature of the cooperation the two parties will now engage in, that is also very necessary for both to survive in the Austrian political landscape.

Mitterlehner, in turn, commented via social media that he is looking forward to "good cooperation" with the new SPOe team, something both sides can "profit from." Endit