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Britain's new Prime Minister, Liz Truss, during her inaugural speech at Downing Street
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Hannah McKay / REUTERS
In her first speech in front of her official residence in London's Downing Street, the new British Prime Minister Liz Truss appealed for the solidarity of the British people.
In view of the energy crisis, the rising cost of living and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the Prime Minister was confident that the country would master the problems: "I am sure that we will weather this storm together".
Truss was formally commissioned to form a government by Queen Elizabeth II at Balmoral Castle in Scotland that afternoon.
She took over from her predecessor Boris Johnson.
Former Foreign Minister Truss recently prevailed against former Finance Minister Rishi Sunak in a multi-week selection process within the conservative Tories in the race for party leadership.
This was accompanied by the assumption of the Prime Minister's office.
In her speech, Truss once again paid tribute to Johnson.
"He will go down in history as an important prime minister," Truss said.
Johnson implemented Brexit and opposed Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
She is honored to take on the responsibilities of government at such an important time for the country.
Truss stressed that belief in democracy and freedom is what makes Britain great.
The former Foreign Secretary named the economy, energy prices and the NHS health service as priorities.
She will ensure that roads, apartments and high-speed Internet are built.
"Of course it won't be easy, but we can do it. We will transform Great Britain into a rising nation," said Truss.
"As strong as the storm is, I know the British are stronger."
She pledged that people would not be allowed to pay unaffordable energy bills and promised to come up with plans to do so this week.
"I'm determined to deliver," Truss said.
fek/dpa