EU Lisbon Treaty enters into force

The European Union's first president has officially taken office, following the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by the bloc's 27 member states.

The treaty, designed to boost the EU's global position and reinforce the role of the bloc's parliament, entered into force late Monday to replace the bloc's constitution.

It also created two new posts -- president of the European Council and a high representative for foreign affairs.

During a summit in November, the EU heads of states chose Belgian Prime Minister Herman Van Rompuy to be the first permanent European Council President.

Catherine Ashton from the UK also officially became EU's foreign policy chief as a successor to Javier Solana, who leaves his post on Tuesday after 10 years in the role.

The two new jobs are considered the most immediate effects of the accord.

The treaty comes into force almost exactly eight years since its conception, after overcoming its final hurdle when the Czech Republic became the last of the member states to ratify it earlier this month.

Supporters of the pact believe it will make the EU more democratic and more efficient, but critics say it will cede too many national powers to Brussels.