Depending on the progress in coalition-building talks, he could put forward a nominee as early as 18 August and parliament could vote on the nomination on 22 August.

Pahor expects that he will carry out consultations with the deputy group heads between Monday and Wednesday now that all deputy groups in parliament have been formed.

Speaking to the press after meeting the newly-appointed Speaker Milan Brglez on Wednesday, the president emphasised the need to form a new government as soon as possible, as the outgoing government is taking "doubtful decisions".

Pahor believes that some of the current problems and problems that have been on the government agenda for a while can only be solved if a government with full powers is appointed.

He believes that the National Assembly could take a vote on the new government in mid-September in case that it votes on and confirms the PM-designate nominee on 22 August, as currently envisaged.

Before nominating the PM-designate, Pahor will also consult with Brglez and Miro Cerar, the president of the winning SMC party and the obvious choice for the PM-designate nominee.

The president hopes that the four parties which have remained in coalition talks with the SMC will enable him to send the nominee to parliament as soon as possible, which would help end the political uncertainty.

Brglez assessed the meeting as constructive and fruitful, as provisional dates for the formation of the new government have been set. He expects all institutions to do their job in this process.

"We are in a position where all state institutions must stand together to do what is most important for the country," the speaker told the press speaking alongside Pahor.