President Lenin Moreno takes office in Ecuador Published duration 24 May 2017

image copyright AFP image caption Lenin Moreno: "I am a president for all"

Ecuador's new President Lenin Moreno has taken office, pledging to continue the left-wing policies of his predecessor Rafael Correa.

In his inaugural speech, he promised more subsidies for the poor and a major social house-building programme which would create millions of jobs.

But he also said he would streamline government administration costs.

Mr Moreno won April's closely contested presidential election, beating his conservative rival Guillermo Lasso.

"I am a president for all. I owe this to everyone. I respect everyone," President Moreno aid on Wednesday in the capital, Quito.

"I will work for absolutely no-one to be left behind."

Correspondents say Mr Moreno faces a tough job, as oil-rich Ecuador has suffered from the fall in global prices, and the country has mounting debts.

Who is Lenin Moreno?

image copyright Reuters

64 years old, left-wing, former vice-president

Close ally of outgoing President Rafael Correa

Became paraplegic after being shot in the back after being robbed in 1998

Wants to increase employment opportunities and give all Ecuadoreans the chance to go on to higher education

Has written books with titles such as "Being Happy is Easy and Fun"