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Austrian president meets newly-elected successor for talks

Xinhua, May 25, 2016 Adjust font size:

Outgoing Austrian President Heinz Fischer hosted new president-elect Alexander Van der Bellen for talks at the Hofburg Palace here on Tuesday, a day after the latter was confirmed to be taking over as head of state.

Following their meeting, which both said had run amicably, Fischer told the media he already had years of cooperation with Van der Bellen, the former leader of the Greens party, though the nature of the present meeting was something new.

The two had spoken about the first tasks and appointments that would be awaiting Van der Bellen.

Fischer also said a work meeting with the president-elect had been scheduled, and that "there is indeed a lot to discuss."

In addition, both men wished to see a smooth transition as Van der Bellen prepares to take on the presidency on July 8.

Van der Bellen in turn thanked Fischer for the discussion, and said he was "relieved" that there are still a few weeks remaining before his swearing-in as president.

He additionally appealed to the media not to sensationalize the result of the election that was finalized Monday.

His rival in the election, Norbert Hofer, whom he beat by a record-low margin, has been invited to the Hofburg Palace for talks with Fischer on Wednesday. Enditem