Jan 14 (Reuters) - Nationalist candidate Tomislav Nikolic has a slight lead over pro-Western incumbent Boris Tadic ahead of the first round of Serbia's presidential election on Jan.20. Here are profiles of the main candidates: TOMISLAV NIKOLIC (Radical Party) Orientation: nationalist, eurosceptic Promises: keep Kosovo within Serbia but without going to war; fight crime, corruption ; promote employment and people-friendly economic growth strategies. Quote: "If I win these elections, it is Serbia that will win, not Moscow, not Brussels, not Washington." Slogan: "With all our heart" Recent poll figures: around 33 percent BORIS TADIC (Democratic Party) Orientation: centrist, pro-Western Promises: keeping Kosovo within Serbia but also moving towards the European Union; jobs, health care, education; fight against corruption. Quote: "The future of Serbia is in Europe, but Serbia needs to preserve its identity. I will never give up Kosovo nor our identity." Slogan: "For a strong and stable Serbia" Recent poll figures: around 30 percent VELIMIR ILIC (New Serbia/Democratic Party of Serbia) Orientation: populist Promises: development and infrastructure to improve living conditions; employment; keeping Kosovo within Serbia. Quote: "The low birth rate is a huge problem and we have to adopt laws to change it. The new president has to get involved in solving this problem." Slogan: "From the people, for the people" Recent poll figures: around 6 percent CEDOMIR JOVANOVIC (Liberal Democratic Party) Orientation: liberal, pro-Western Promises: rejecting the nationalist values of the war-torn 1990s, joining Europe; emphasis on youth, fast reforms. Quote: "The Kosovo problem is being misused in order for Serbia to get off the European path." Slogan: "Life rules" Recent poll figures: around 6 percent MILUTIN MRKONJIC (Socialist Party) Orientation: Populist, nationalist Promises: social justice, nationalisations, higher pensions. Quote: "Slobodan Milosevic is a charismatic historic personality, I would never be able to reach his level. Nobody can copy him such an honourable, honest, special man." Slogan: "Our comrade" Recent poll figures: around 6 percent (Writing by Ellie Tzortzi; Editing by Giles Elgood)
