Martin Dimitrov, leader of Bulgarian rightist party, the Union of Democratic Forces, has stated that he opposes the nomination of Meglena Plugchieva for the position of Vice-President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

"A person who is going to work with the EBRD should have worked at least a little in the banking system. Because if we continue in this way, education and experience will become meaningless," Dimitrov commented.

He continued: "We were not consulted on her nomination. We are against the candidacy of Ms Plugchieva - we state this categorically and clearly. Ms Plugchieva came and promised to deal with EU funds - she failed to deal with Bulgarian money and is now going to deal with European funds."

Dimitrov was reacting to the announcement by Plugchieva earlier on Thursday that confirmed she was standing for the EBRD position. She had added that this would be in a personal capacity, not in association with her political party, BSP.

Martin Dimitorv also commented briefly on the decision to make macro-economist Ilian Mihov a third Deputy Prime Minister.

"Ilian Mihov is a clever person, but we have not been consulted on that decision. We disclaim any responsibility. I can only say that we shall have to see what he will contribute, and how duties will be shared between him and Djankov [Finance Minister and present Deputy PM] - this is the most interesting question," he stated.

He concluded his remarks by commenting on the Prime Minister's way of making these nominations: "It is evident that Borisov makes them himself, which I think does not lead to good results. It is better to conduct consultations," he said.