Slovak Leader May Bring Stability

BRATISLAVA, Slovakia — Government candidate Rudolf Schuster was declared the victor Sunday in Slovakia's presidential election, paving the way for tough economic measures planned by the coalition administration.

The central electoral commission said Schuster took more than 57% of the vote Saturday; ex-Premier Vladimir Meciar won 42.8%.

The powers of the presidency are largely ceremonial, but both markets and foreign governments have watched the election, eager to see greater stability in the country's troubled political scene.