Brazil's new President, Janio, Quadros, at 44 the youngest President in the history of Latin America's largest nation, took the oath of office before 1500 people in the House of Congress, in the half built capital of Brasilia, Jan 31.

Representatives of 55 nations witnessed the inauguration ceremony, while thousands of Brazilian citizens waited to hear Senhor Quadros' speech from the balcony of the Congress building.

Outgoing President Juscelino Kubitschek ended his five-year term by formally removing the green and yellow sash of office from his chest and placing it on the new President.

In his address to the people, Senhor Quadros made no mention of the 'Santa Maria' lying off Recife with Portuguese rebels in control.