Raja Pervaiz takes charge as Prime Minister

ISLAMABAD: Newly elected Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf formally took charge of his duties here on Saturday after he was presented the guard of honour, Geo News reported.

A reception was held at the Prime Minister House, Islamabad where Raja Pervaiz Ashraf was presented the guard of honour by the armed forces to welcome him.

After the national anthem, the prime minister inspected the guard of honour. He was introduced to the staff and other senior officials of the Prime Minister House after which he left for his office.

On Friday, Raja along with his 38-strong federal cabinet took oath as the prime minister at the Presidency.

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.

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.