Romania opposition Social Democrats dismiss rumored offer to ally with governing Liberals

The leader of the main opposition party in Romania, the Social Democrats (PSD), announced on Monday that his group would stick to the opposition, thus dismissing earlier claims that the governing Liberals (PNL) would negotiate a possible entry of the PSD in the government. PSD leader Mircea Geoana said his group would continue to oppose both the parties that are now part of the governing coalition and the political groups supporting President Traian Basescu.

Geoana made the statements as several media outlets said on Monday morning that talks were about to take place between the PSD and the PNL parties on a possible alliance between the two parties. The Social Democratic leader had recently warned that the government would not be able to remain in office any longer without a supporting coalition.

Geoana made the statements as talks concluded at the National Executive Board of the party in Bucharest on Monday. The talks took place a week after the first European elections took place in Romania simultaneously with a referendum on reforming the electoral law. Both polls reported a extremely low turnout, while most parties, including the PSD, received considerable less votes than expected.

Geoana said the main objectives of the party now are winning the 2008 elections and to return to over 30% of voter support.

Another PSD leader, Marian Vanghelie, dismissed any possibility of an alliance with the Liberals led by PM Calin Popescu Tariceanu on Monday, saying they were incapable to run the government.