Ilie Bolojan, message before the meeting with Luca Niculescu / What are the PNL’s conditions for supporting the future government

Ilie Bolojan announced on Thursday, ahead of the meeting with designated Prime Minister Luca Niculescu, the conditions under which the PNL will support the future government in the investiture vote. The liberals are demanding that the new governing program provide for limiting expenditure, meeting deficit targets, and continuing budgetary discipline measures.

The PNL president stated that Romania urgently needs a government with full powers, capable of managing the operation of public services during the final months of the year, adopting the budget revision, and preparing the budget for next year. Bolojan emphasized that the deficit targets for the following year and for 2028 “are not negotiable.”

The liberal leader warned that the increase in public debt and interest rates could place additional pressure on the budget. He argued that each percentage point paid in additional interest represents billions of lei that can no longer be allocated to investment, healthcare, or education.

Bolojan harshly criticized the Social Democrats who oppose measures to reduce expenditure, calling them “irresponsible.” He accused the PSD of making unfunded promises and rejected allegations regarding “savage austerity.”

Luca Niculescu was designated prime minister by President Nicușor Dan following consultations with the parliamentary parties. To be invested, he must obtain 233 votes. Negotiations began on Thursday with the PSD, PNL, and UDMR.