Over 13.500 Romanians voted in Spain

More than 17.000 votes were cast in the UK, more than double the number cast at the same time two weeks ago. The turnout is also high in the other European countries where large Romanian communities live, all with much higher numbers than in the first round two weeks ago. In Germany, almost 17.000 citizens have already voted, while in Spain, 13.500 have cast their ballots, compared to 9.300 at 6pm on May 2. RRA correspondent Alin Petrica has been in one of the polling stations in the city of Castellon since this morning and reports.

Reporter: There has been a noticeably higher turnout than two weeks ago, since this morning Romanians have been coming alone or in groups to vote. Across Spain there were times when 2.000 people voted in an hour. Most of them also went to the polls in the first round, but a good proportion only decided to vote in the last few days.

Reporter: So what did you vote for?
-For a better future. We hope it will turn out well for all of Romania, that we will come back home.
Reporter: Did you go to the first round?
-Yes.
Reporter: How important is it for the diaspora to vote for Romania?
-Sir, we all go back home sooner or later, right? That's why we go out to vote.
Reporter: Did you vote in the first round?
-No.
Reporter: And what made you decide to come today?
-: Because I realize that help is badly needed.

Reporter: From talking to those who voted today, as well as from the heated discussions on online community groups, there is a mobilization for the vote these days. No matter who they vote for, people know that this is an important moment for their future and the future of their country. Voting closes at 9pm local time today and tomorrow. On Sunday, those who want to vote should be aware that the process closes at 21:00 local time, which is 20:00 peninsular Spanish time.

Translated by: Radu Matei