Ghani Ahmadzai sworn in as new Afghan president amid tight security

Roundup: Ghani Ahmadzai sworn in as new Afghan president amid tight security

by

KABUL, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai on Monday was sworn in as new president of Afghanistan, replacing Hamid Karzai and marking the first-ever peaceful power transition in the history of the conflict-ridden of the country.

After assuming office in a ceremony attended by some 1,400 national and international dignitaries in Arg or Presidential Palace amid tight security, Ghani Ahmadzai in his first decree created the post of Chief Executive, a post equal to that of prime minister in the new government of national unity and administered the oath appointing Abdullah Abdullah as chief executive in the new administration.

In his maiden speech to the nation as the president of the country, Ghani Ahmadzai vowed to fight corruption, bring reforms, ensures good governance, alleviate poverty and would spare no efforts in improving the living conditions of his countrymen.

He also called upon the armed oppositions to give up fighting and contribute in the rebuilding process of Afghanistan.

"My proposal to the armed oppositions, particularly the Taliban and Hizb-e-Islami, is to give up fighting and begun negotiations for the larger interests of the country," President Ghani Ahmadzai said in his speech.

The new Afghan president also thanked the international community for its contribution to Afghans over the past 13 years and called for its continued support.

President Ghani Ahmadzai also pointed out that peace in Afghanistan is essential for peace and stability in the region and the world at large.

In part of his hour-long speech, the new Afghan president assured that Afghan soil won't be used against any country and also wishes same from others.

President Ghani Ahmadzai also noted that his government wants co-existence with the neighboring states and enhances bilateral relations with all countries including the U.S., Canada, China, India, European and Asian nations.

Meantime, Afghans on the day of presidential inauguration experienced violent incidents and according to officials, three suicide attacks in Kabul, Kunduz and Paktia province have inflicted casualties but no figure has been released. Enditem