Heinz Fischer geïnstalleerd als nieuwe president Oostenrijk (en)

In a sombre ceremony overshadowed by the death of his predecessor Thomas Klestil, the new Austrian president Heinz Fischer has been sworn into office.

Mr Fischer, a social democrat, was elected to the largely ceremonial post in April.

"I want to dedicate my first words as president to my predecessor and his life's work", said Mr Fischer referring to the fact that Mr Klestil died just two days before the end of his term.

The Austrian head of state can influence the formation of a government and is commander-in-chief of the Austrian military.