Albania Announces New “War” Measures Against Coronavirus

Police and army officers manning a checkpoint in the port of Durres on 12 March 2020. Photo: LSA

On Wednesday, Albania closed bars and restaurants following the first recorded death caused by the coronavirus. By Thursday afternoon, the number of cases had risen to 23, mostly people with a history of recent travel to Italy, the country at the centre of the pandemic spread in Europe and a country with which Albania has multiple economic and social relations. All the other infected people are currently in a stable condition, the Ministry of Health said.

"I apologize 1,000 times but this war cannot be won otherwise," Rama wrote on Facebook, while announcing the 72-hour curfew during which only transportation of basic needs such as food and medicine will be allowed.

Also on Thursday, Albania Central Bank Governor Gent Sejko imposed a three-month loan holiday for both business and families. All those who wish to, can now postpone the payments on their loans without suffering penalties.

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