Discussed the possibilities in the situation
Bjarni Benediktsson speaks to the media outside Bessastaðir. mbl.is/Eyþór
"It was a good chat about the situation," said Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson about his meeting with the President of Iceland in Bessastaðir this morning.
When asked, he said he had not discussed any specific government model with her.
"We still discussed these election results and the possibilities in the situation, and it was beneficial for both of us, I think," he said, and said he would remain in contact with Tómasdóttir as needed.
Bjarni Benediktsson coming to the meeting this morning. mbl.is/Eyþór
Similar approach as other presidents
He said Halla is approaching the current project in connection with government formation negotiations in a similar way to other presidents he has met with.
"I think she has the same basic approach, which is trying to support a process that can lead to the formation of a strong, functional government here."
Independence Party to meet today
Benediktsson did not say anything clear about the next steps but mentioned that he planned to meet with the parliamentary group of the Independence Party at 1 pm today. He looked forward to meeting the party's new MPs and wishing them congratulations.
Benediktsson and Tómasdóttir at Bessastaðir. mbl.is/Eyþór
Not making a special effort to get a mandate
Before meeting the President of Iceland in Bessastaðir, Bjarni said that he did not intend to make a special effort to get a mandate to form a government.
"There is nothing achieved by seeking it in itself and sitting there with the mandate and then not being able to do anything with it, you just have to understand the situation."
"At the same time, the person who holds the mandate is no better off if someone else forms a majority at the same time. These are a mix of formalities and practical issues that need to be assessed, but we are ready to shoulder the responsibility that comes with being a large party in parliament," he added.
Asked if he had spoken to the chairmen of other parties, Bjarni replied:
"I am going to meet my parliamentary group next, so we have not entered into any real conversation anywhere."
