Tight Presidential Race in Romania: Exit Polls Show Close Contest

Exit polls from Romania's first presidential election round show a tight race. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu leads, slightly ahead of centre-right Elena Lasconi, who is closely followed by two hard-right candidates. Lasconi indicates she will await Monday's preliminary results to celebrate.

BUCHAREST, Nov 24 (Reuters) - The Romanian presidential election's first round has proven to be intensely competitive, as exit polls reveal a close race.

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu appears poised for victory, narrowly leading the field over centre-right contender Elena Lasconi. Lasconi faces stiff competition from two hard-right opponents.

While Lasconi waits on the final preliminary results set for Monday, the tense political atmosphere reflects the highly contested nature of this election.

(With inputs from agencies.)