Karzai sworn in as new prime minister

Hamid Karzai has been sworn in as prime minister of Afghanistan's new interim government.

After Chief Justice Mohammed Qasim administered the oath of office, outgoing President Burhanuddin Rabbani embraced Karzai, to applause from foreign diplomats and tribal leaders.

"I promise you that I will fulfill my mission to bring peace to Afghanistan," Karzai said in a speech in both his native Pashtu and Dari, Afghanistan's two primary languages.

"Our country, as result of the long war, has been distracted. We need hard work from all Afghans. Bearing in mind all these difficulties, our country is in need of support from the United Nations and all friendly countries.

"We should put our hands together to be brothers and friends. Forget the painful past," he said.

"Go ahead, Afghanistan is ours and we are its sons and daughters. God help us to do whatever makes you happy. Thank you." He smiled and nodded as the audience erupted in thunderous applause.

He swore in the other 29 members of his cabinet - including two women - who stood behind him on the dais.