Europe prepares to ease coronavirus lockdowns
(VOVWORLD) - Governments across Europe have begun preparations to ease the lockdowns imposed across much of the continent to contain the coronavirus pandemic, even if restrictions that have paralysed the economy are expected to remain in force for several more weeks.
A view of the completely empty Mayor Street in Madrid on April 5, 2020. One day earlier, Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez extended the shutdown of his country for another two weeks. (Photo: JuanJo Martin/EPA)
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Pedro Sánchez, the Spanish prime minister, on Saturday extended the shutdown of his country for another two weeks until April 26 but he said a ban imposed last month on all non-essential work including manufacturing and construction would be lifted after Easter.
Denmark, which was one of the first countries in Europe to shut down activity and close its borders, last week became the first to put a timetable on the loosening of restrictions.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Danes for the next two weeks — beyond Easter — continue to stand together, at a distance, and if the numbers remain stable and reasonable, then the government will begin a gradual, quiet and controlled opening of the society again.