Authorities call for calm
Against the backdrop of the rising number of COVID-19 infections, Romanian authorities have asked the citizens to cooperate, keep calm and get information from secure sources
Eugen Coroianu, 16.03.2020, 13:50
Although Romania is not confronted with a large number of confirmed COVID-19 infections, the number is bound to increase and the authorities are taking drastic measures. The Government has asked citizens to keep calm and strictly observe recommendations issued by the authorities. Prime Minister Ludovic Orban:I’m calling on citizens to be calm, responsible and civil, to observe the legislation and measures established by the National Committee for Emergency Situations, the Government and the Interior Ministry.
During an online press conference, the Prime Minister pointed out that the relatively low number of COVID-19 infections in Romania is evidence of the efficiency of measures taken by the authorities. The Prime Minister gave assurances that there are no concerns over the necessary funds to cover public spending at the moment, and that all pensions will be paid in due time. On the other hand Ludovic Orban said the authorities have taken steps to purchase the equipment required to fight the COVID-19 epidemic. The Prime Minister called on the population not to oversupply, saying grocery stores are fully stocked.
The announcement follows a panic-buying shopping spree generated by the coronavirus scare, which have left shelves empty in supermarkets. The Prime Minister told Romanians currently living abroad that they are free to return to Romania, but will be entering quarantine or forced isolation for a period of 14 days, depending on the point of origin. In turn, President Klaus Iohannis has also called for calm:Dear Romanians, the authorities are doing their job. The Government has done a very good job so far, but the task at hand needs a collective effort. It will require that each and every one of you observe the authorities’ recommendations and instructions. You must observe hygiene rules transmitted on official channels, and you need to refrain from making unwarranted public contacts. Together and only together will we succeed in overcoming this crisis. Interim leader of the Social-Democratic Party and Chamber of Deputies Speaker Marcel Ciolacu has called on the authorities to give special priority to informing the public, asking for a set of concrete measures to protect the citizens. (Translated by V. Palcu)
