Austrian president in critical condition

Austrian President Thomas Klestil's life was still in danger Monday after his heart temporarily stopped beating, a doctor in charge of his treatment said.

He added that "in the best scenario" Klestil would have to spend "at least 14 days in an artificial coma" to stabilize his lungs and vital functions.

"We are gravely concerned, but we have hope," said Krepler.

Earlier in the day, security guards at the president's residence in Vienna's suburb resuscitated him with defibrillator after he had a serious heart failure.

Klestil was then flown by helicopter to hospital and admitted in critical condition, the Austria Press Agency (APA) reported.

Klestil, 71, will end his term Thursday, when Heinz Fischer will take over as president.

He suffered from a severe case of pneumonia in 1996, and his lung problems turned serious again in recent days, reports said.

Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel was temporarily taking over the presidential duties because of Klestil's illness, the APA reported.

Source: Xinhua