The new president of the Dominican Republic has been sworn in with pledges to reduce poverty and improve the Caribbean country's education system.

Danilo Medina said Thursday that he also will expand infrastructure projects from the previous administration, including a subway system, hospitals and roads.

The 60-year-old economist of the Dominican Liberation Party won 51 percent of the vote in May, beating former President Hipolito Mejia.

Outgoing President Leonel Fernandez, who was constitutionally banned from seeking a third term and departed with a 70 percent approval rating.