Romania’s parliament on Monday approved a new pro-European government, aimed at ending months of political turmoil in the EU and NATO member bordering war-torn Ukraine.
The country was plunged into political chaos when presidential elections were annulled in December over allegations of Russian interference and a massive social media campaign in favor of the far-right frontrunner.
Centrist Nicusor Dan, who won an election re-run in May, named Ilie Bolojan, 56, leader of the liberal party (PNL), as prime minister on Friday following weeks of talks, which excluded the far-right parties.
On Monday, parliament approved Bolojan’s government, with 301 votes in favor – exceeding the 233 votes needed – and just nine against it. The main far-right AUR party boycotted the vote.
Bolojan had earlier secured the support of three other pro-European parties despite policy differences.
In his speech before the vote, Bolojan vowed his government would carry out “fundamental reforms” and “reconstruction” to tackle Romania’s dire finances and reconcile the divided country.
Far-right parties won an unprecedented third of parliamentary seats in December.
The European Union has voiced concerns over the rise of Eurosceptic parties in NATO member Romania that are opposed to sending military aid to Ukraine.
Bolojan has warned the new government may have to resort to “unpopular measures” to rein in the deficit, including cutting public spending and imposing tax rises.
The deficit stood at 9.3% at the end of last year, the highest in the European Union.