Capital Mayor Nicusor Dan, an independent candidate in the presidential election, said he voted on Sunday 'with realism,' as Romania is going through 'a difficult time,' but also in support of many 'quiet,' 'honest,' and 'hard-working' people who have not been represented until now.

'I voted for many quiet, honest, hard-working people who have not been represented until today. I voted for hope and for a new beginning for Romania - a country that has capable people both here, as well as in the diaspora, and in the Republic of Moldova, people capable of making this country into what it deserves to be. I voted with realism, because Romania is going through a difficult time, and we cannot expect those who have driven the country into the ground since May 12 to be the ones to get it out. And I voted for justice, and for that candidate who can bring justice to Romania,' said Nicusor Dan after voting with his wife at a polling station organised at 'Luceafarul' Middle School.

He thanked Romanians in the diaspora who have voted in large numbers and encouraged those who haven't yet voted to do so. 'They carry Romania in their hearts and stand with those at home. Thank you once again, and I encourage them to vote,' Nicusor Dan added. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Irinela Visan; EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)