Mongolia's new President Khaltmaa Battulga speaks during the inauguration ceremony in Ulan Bator, Mongolia, July 10, 2017. (Xinhua/Asigang)



ULAN BATOR, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Khaltmaa Battulga of the Mongolian Democratic Party was officially inaugurated here as president of the country on Monday.

The inauguration, held at the State Palace, was attended by Prime Minister Jargaltulga Erdenebat, Chairman of the Constitutional Court Jugnee Amarsanaa, parliament and government members, among others.

Taking the oath, Battulga pledged to respect and protect the rights and freedom of Mongolian citizens, "observe and protect the Constitution of Mongolia, protect sovereignty and independence, security and integrity of the state, and truly serve the people."

Aiming at reducing poverty, Battulga said he will restore the economy, develop the industrial sphere and ensure ecological balance.

The new president said he will also "expand friendly relations with China and Russia in all spheres" before receiving the seal from outgoing President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj.

The inauguration came three days after the General Election Commission announced that Battulga won the election Friday against Miyegombo Enkhbold of the Mongolian People's Party, with 50.6 percent of the vote in the runoff.

The Mongolian president serves a four-year term and can be re-elected only once.

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Hot dog eating contest held in New York </s> Mongolia's new President Khaltmaa Battulga is from the opposition Democratic Party. (Reuters) </s> The first round yielded no definitive winner after no candidate succeeded in securing over 50 percent of votes.

Center-right Democratic Party contender Battulga Khaltmaa led with 38 percent of votes, trailed by parliamentary speaker Miyegombyn Enkhbold of the center-left Mongolian People's Party.

This is the seventh presidential election in the former Soviet state in Central Asia bordered by Russia and China. Sitting President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj is not eligible after two stints in office.
Battulga Khaltmaa is sworn in as the new President of Mongolia following his victory in the second round presidential election on 7 July.