Romanian president names diplomat Luca Niculescu as fourth PM candidate

President Nicușor Dan has appointed Luca Niculescu, a senior diplomat and secretary of state in the foreign ministry, as Romania's prime minister-designate. Niculescu faces the challenging task of forming a new government, marking the fourth attempt since the coalition collapsed in May and a five-month political stalemate.

To secure the position, Niculescu must gain majority support in Romania's parliament within 10 days. The country has experienced significant political division, with previous nominees failing to secure enough votes. President Dan announced his choice after holding discussions with political parties.

President Dan expressed reservations about calling snap elections, citing concerns that it could empower a far-right, euroskeptic opposition party. He stated that Niculescu, as a diplomat, is capable of harmonizing different positions and assured that a government led by him would maintain Romania's pro-Western orientation and adhere to financial commitments. Niculescu has previously led Romania's accession process to the OECD.

George Simion, leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) party, which leads in opinion polls, has called for an election to resolve the ongoing political uncertainty. Niculescu acknowledged the prolonged period of uncertainty and emphasized the need to build a parliamentary majority committed to Romania's European and Euro-Atlantic alignment, and to agree on a realistic governing program.