SINGAPORE, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's new Cabinet led by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong were sworn into office by President S. R. Nathan on Tuesday night at the Istana, the official residence of the President.

    Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Lee said that he and his team have received a clear mandate in the recent general election to set the direction for the next phase of Singapore's development and adding that they will work with all Singaporeans to achieve the best for the country.

    He noted that the government will grow the economy, address people's needs, improve their living, keep the country safe and secure, as well as playing its part as a responsible member of the international community.

    Lee urged Singaporeans to adapt themselves to the rapidly changing world so as to thrive and succeed in it and encouraged young people to take more responsibility for moving Singapore forward.

    About 700 guests, including representatives from the diplomatic corps and Singaporeans from all walks of life, attended the ceremony, according to Channel NewsAsia report.

    The Cabinet, reshuffled by Lee on May 22, comprise 18 ministers and 12 ministers of state.

    Among the changes, seven incumbent ministers got additional appointments or had part of their responsibilities replaced by new ones, while three re-elected Members of Parliament (MPs) and five first-time MPs were appointed ministers of state or parliamentary secretaries. Enditem