Further relaxation measures in Romania
On May 15, Romania saw an easing of restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, and further relaxation will follow after June 1.
Corina Cristea, 29.05.2020, 14:00
With a number of deaths recently exceeding 1,200 and about 19 thousand cases of COVID-19 contamination confirmed over the past 3 months since the reporting of the first case of coronavirus infection on its territory, Romania will now enter a new phase of easing of restrictions. The measures, imposed as of March 15 across Romania in a move to contain the spread of the virus, have already been partially relaxed two weeks ago, when the state of emergency was replaced by a state of alert. So, as of May 15 Romanians no longer needed self-declarations to leave their homes and travel in their home localities or metropolitan areas. Parks and museums were re-opened, people thus returning gradually to normal socialization.
The authorities have analyzed the situation of the past two weeks of state of alert and have concluded that further relaxation measures may be taken in Romania as of June 1. Among the new relaxation measures: the opening of café and restaurant gardens, of beaches, and the organization of open-air performances with up to 500 spectators. Sports competitions, that do not require direct contact among athletes, will be resumed, as well as international road and rail transportation. People will also be allowed to travel without any restrictions outside their home towns or metropolitan area, the PM Ludovic Orban announced.
He also highlighted the conditions that need to be observed: “It is permitted to prepare, sell and consume foodstuffs, beverages and alcoholic drinks in special places located outside buildings, in the open air, while ensuring a distance of at least 2 meters among tables and with 4 people at the most sitting at one table, if these people are not from the same family. As of June 1, people can also go to the beach, with beach administrators having to ensure sun beds for each person. A minimum distance of 2 meters needs to be ensured among sun beds used by different families.”
Although some of the restrictions will be eliminated, President Klaus Iohannis calls for caution though: “We cannot say that the epidemic has significantly subsided. Consequently, please continue to be very careful! I repeat, dear Romanians, dear young people, dear students, dear children, we will succeed in overcoming this pandemic if we observe social distancing rules, if we wear masks inside enclosed spaces, and if we wash our hands as often as possible.” Said President Iohannis.
The evolution of the pandemic, with almost 200 new contaminations reported daily, shows that we need to continue to pay attention to hygiene and prevention rules, because there are still many cases of infection and people in ICUs, President Iohnnis also added. (tr. L. Simion)
