Former chairman of Exxon Mobil sworn-in as US secretary of state

February 02, 2017 07:58

Rex Tillerson, the former chairman and chief executive of Exxon Mobil, has been sworn in as US President Donald Trump's secretary of state after having been confirmed by the Senate earlier in the day.

"Though you inherit enormous challenges in the Middle East and around the world, I do believe we can achieve peace and stability in these very, very troubled times," Trump said at the swearing-in ceremony in the White House's Oval Office.

Tillerson, 64, who was confirmed by the Senate in a 56-43 vote, was administered the oath of office by Vice President Mike Pence.

However, his nomination was opposed by Democratic lawmakers in the Senate, who raked up his ties with Russia and President Vladimir Putin.

In remarks on the Senate floor, Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren said Tillerson's "extensive and longstanding ties with Russia" meant that the US couldn't trust him to be a strong advocate for their interests.

"Secretary Tillerson's close personal and business ties with President Putin give me no confidence that he would be an effective force in America's dealings with Russia," said Democratic Senator Dick Durbin.

Also read: Meet Trump's Cabinet and Inner Circle

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