Newly-elected Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf formally took over his office after guard of honor ceremony held at Prime Minister House here in Islamabad on Saturday.

Earlier, Raja along with his 38-strong federal cabinet took oath yesterday at the Presidency then, he shifted to Prime Minister House, where he took on charge of his office after guard of honor.
In an august ceremony attended by among others chiefs of three armed forces, President Zardari administered oath to Raja Pervez and his cabinet consisting of 27 federal ministers and 11 state ministers.
Later on, addressing the oath-taking ceremony, President Zardari thanked Ashraf for his induction in new office and all coalition partners and members for supporting Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
President said the election of Prime Minister was completed in accordance with democratic traditions and the success of Raja Ashraf is a clear proof of people’s confidence on democracy.
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani for safeguarding the Constitution and the Parliament, President Zardari said the former premier braved the troubles undauntedly.
Voicing hope that the new Prime Minister will resolve the public issues, he noted the newly elected Prime Minister and his cabinet will tackle the energy crisis on priority basis.
He also hailed National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fahmida Mirza for running the House efficiently.