CRI听力:Romanian Prime Minister Concedes Defeat in Presidential Election

Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta has conceded defeat in an extremely close presidential runoff against Transylvanian mayor Klaus Iohannis.

Ponta has called to personally congratulate Iohannis.

Early exit polls had put the results neck and neck.

Official results are expected later on this Monday.

Iohannis focused his campaign on fighting corruption, promising an independent justice system.

"Today we voted for a country full of respect, for a more prosperous and stronger Romania."

The result has come as a bit of a surprise, as Ponta took the first round of voting by some 10-percent.

It's being suggested the results have been swung by the roughly 300-thousand Romanians who live overseas, many of whom are widely opposed to Ponta's legislative administration.

Iohannis, if confirmed the winner, will replace Traian Basescu, who is stepping down after 10-years in office.