The outgoing prime minister of Slovakia, Vladimir Meciar, has formally resigned his parliamentary seat as the country's new parliament began its first sessionsince last month's general election.

His party the HZDS nominated the former head of state security, Ivan Lexa, to succeed him.

Mr Meciar is expected to step down officially as premier in favour of the leader of the Democratic Party, Mikulas Dzurinda.

On Wednesday the four main opposition parties that won the election reached agreement on forming a coalition goverment.

Correspondents say the new government has promised to introduce democratic reforms and bring Slovakia which under Mr Meciar was criticised for being anti-reformist closer to the West.