BAGHDAD, June 28 (Xinhuanet) -- The interim Iraqi government was officially sworn in on Monday, hours after taking over sovereignty from the US-led coalition.

    Iraqi President Ghazi al-Yawar and Prime Minister Iyad Allawi took their oaths before a senior Iraqi judge, followed by the rest of the cabinet members.

    "Before us is a challenge and a burden, we ask God to give us the patience and guide us to take this country whose people deserves all goodness," said Yawar after taking his oath."I will preserve the independence of Iraq," said Yawar. "May God protect Iraq and its citizens." Enditem