Petro Poroshenko has been sworn in as president of Ukraine, amid hopes the move could help put an end to deadly fighting in the east of the country.
The 48-year-old tycoon has been buoyed by messages of support from the West, after his victory in the 25 May poll.
On Friday, he briefly met Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying this could be the start of a dialogue.
Kiev accuses Moscow of backing separatists in the east - a claim denied by the Kremlin.
Mr Poroshenko is being inaugurated in the presence of dozens of foreign dignitaries - including US Vice-President Joe Biden - in the parliament in the capital Kiev.
Petro Poroshenko is sworn in as president
The inauguration is taking place at parliament in Kiev
Ukrainian border guards have been involved in fierce fighting with separatists in recent days
The rebels are continuing to hold a number of government buildings in the east
Former acting President Oleksandr Turchynov began proceedings with a speech welcoming the dignitaries. He thanked Mr Biden for US support for his country.
Mr Poroshenko has now taken the oath of office.
Russia is represented by its ambassador, whom Moscow recalled after former President Viktor Yanukovych - seen by many as pro-Russian - was ousted in February.
Mr Poroshenko, the owner of the Roshen chocolates group, is expected to lay out his programme for ending the current crisis.
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