France Criticizes Italy’s Plan to Open Borders for Holidaymakers in June
France’s Minister of Interior Christophe Castaner believes Italy should not have taken a decision to reopen its borders in June without first coordinating with some of the EU member states, calling Italy’s decision as a non-uniform response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
On Saturday, Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced that Italy will permit European vacationers to enter the country whereas the imposed mandatory quarantine will be put to an end beginning June 3, According to the Italian government’s notice, on the proposal of President Giuseppe Conte and Minister of Health Roberto Speranza, the Council of Ministers approved a decree-law which introduces further urgent measures to deal with the epidemiological emergency from COVID-19.
The decree foresees the Italian borders to reopen on June 3 noting that the decision could be annulled if the country notices an increase in the number of infections from Coronavirus pandemic.
Regarding the issue, Castaner said that “It’s crucial for us to coordinate our choices on the European stage, particularly, relating to the Schengen Space. However, at the moment, it’s not taking place.”
As per France, its government has announced that the imposed restrictions will be valid until at least June 15, Castaner pointed out earlier this month.
“The closure of the borders is the rule… we now have to maintain this safety in place, this won’t change quickly,” Castaner has said.
Italy and France have been heavily affected by the Coronavirus pandemic, though both countries now have a lower rate of infections.
Italy also will permit retailers to renew operations, whereas gyms, swimming pools, sports activities facilities are also planned to be reopened. Theatres and cinemas will resume their work on June 15.
“We’re going through a calculated danger, understanding that the epidemiological curve might rise once more,” Conte said.
Earlier this month, the President of the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT) Giorgio Palmucci, stressed that Italy would not close off to tourists this year.
