We are edging closer to nominating a joint presidential candidate with the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP). This is what Rumen Petkov, Deputy Chairperson of the Alternative for Bulgarian Revival (ABV) party, said at a press conference in connection with the negotiations between ABV and BSP for nominating a presidential candidate for the upcoming elections this November. According to Mr Petkov, ABV has come a long way towards nominating a joint candidate and running mate with another left-wing party.
“Each side of the negotiations has its responsibilities. There was a period of time, when I used to be very critical [towards BSP]. I think that we are past this stage now, and I hope that we are ready to overcome our differences. I think that the BSP leadership is also ready for such a meeting,” Mr Petkov said. According to him, BSP was going through a very tough period, and any attempts of external intervention in the party now would be unacceptable. 
“We, at ABV, have come a long way, and the obstacles we have managed to overcome make us ready to be able to set all preconditions and requirements to nominate a joint presidential candidate and running mate for the upcoming elections,” Mr Petkov explained.