site.btaSerious Offers Are Made Only Once, Says Minister Ivanov on Diana Rusinova’s Willingness to Head Road Infrastructure Agency

Regional Development and Public Works Minister Ivan Ivanov said on Monday that serious offers are made once, in response to the newly declared readiness of Diana Rusinova, Chair of the European Centre for Transport Policies, to head the Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) – a role she previously declined earlier in May.

"I accepted Ms. Rusinova’s reasoning that she is part of the NGO sector, where she holds significant commitments. I do not see what could have changed in the span of one week," Ivanov said. He reaffirmed his commitment to continue active cooperation with all non-governmental organizations involved in road safety, according to a statement from the ministry.

Earlier on Tuesday, during a press conference at the BTA National Press Club dedicated to road safety, Rusinova revealed that Ivanov had extended the offer via text message last Monday. She initially did not take the SMS seriously but later submitted a letter to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Regional Development formally accepting the responsibility.

Earlier in May, Ivanov disclosed during an interview with bTV that he had invited Rusinova to lead the RIA four days prior, but she had declined the offer at the time.