Berlusconi Sworn in As Italian Premier

ROME – Silvio Berlusconi was sworn in as premier of the nation’s 60th government in as many years Saturday, after naming a team of ministers that closely resembles the one he led until stepping down earlier this week in a power struggle with allies.

By reconstituting his government, Berlusconi aimed to improve his sagging popularity and avoid early elections as polls suggest his rivals have the edge.

Conservative Berlusconi is keeping most ministers in their old jobs. For example, Gianfranco Fini, head of the National Alliance party, remains foreign minister and deputy premier.