Austria's first three-party government since the aftermath of World War Two took office on Monday, ending the country's longest-ever wait for a ruling coalition and keeping the Russia-friendly, far-right Freedom Party (FPO) out of power.

Austria's centrist parties agree to form a coalition without the far-right election winner Freedom Party:: :: Andreas Babler, SPO leader :: "I am very happy and proud to be able to stand here with you both today to present our joint government programme.

The three biggest centrist parties in Austria's parliament on signalled on Saturday they were close to agreeing on a coalition government, almost five months after an election won by the far-right Freedom Party (FPO),

Austria's centrist coalition government, the first three-party alliance since the aftermath of World War Two, took office on Monday, ending Austria's longest-ever wait for a new government and keeping the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) in opposition.

Austria inaugurates its first three-party government since WWII, sidelining the far-right FPO despite their election win. The OVP, SPO, and Neos form a coalition to address economic recovery and national security.

Austria's new three-party coalition government comprising the conservative Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) and the liberal NEOS was sworn in on Monday, ending months of political deadlock in the Alpine nation.