Serbia names gay woman as premier; Opposition: New gov't to pursue pro-western policy

Photo: O. Bunic

Serbian President Aleksander Vucic has nominated Ana Brnabic as the country's next prime minister, making her the first openly gay premier in the Balkan region and the first Serbian woman in the top job.

"I decided to propose Ana Brnabic as prime minister-designate to the parliament of Serbia," President Aleksandar Vucic told reporters. Brnabic's government needs formal approval by Serbia's parliament next week.

Vucic called the appointment "a difficult decision reached in the interest of Serbia and its citizens."

Brnabic, who is known for her pro-European views, currently serves as Minister of State Administration and Local Government. Despite the pro-European stance of the new candidate, Vucic stressed that he instructed Brnabic to refrain from sanctions against Russia.

"I hope and I am confident that the government of Serbia will not...