Close cooperation is the key, both between member states and between the ministries of health and home affairs, for addressing situations like the coronavirus pandemic, a European Commission representative said on Monday, adding that the EU “is continuing to work closely with the member-states to guarantee a coordinated approach,” ANA reports.
Asked if there are any thoughts of imposing travel restrictions within the EU to control a second wave of the pandemic, the EU spokesperson told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA) that restrictions within EU member-state territories do not necessarily need to be accompanied by travel restrictions and controls at interior borders.
“However, if border controls are applied, this should be carried out in collaboration with the other member-states by using the existing channels and according to the existing rules, while the free transport of goods, those working in key professions and those working in transport should be protected,” he added.
He also said that “possible restrictions of free movement within the EU should be applied when only extremely necessary, must be coordinated and not generate discrimination in order to protect public health.”
At the same time, he explained that temporary controls at the borders may be used only in cases of extreme situations that seriously affect public order or domestic security and only as last resort, while they should be applied only for the period during which the emergency goes on.
Finally, he underlined that the EU is constantly urging “cohesion, the prohibition of discrimination, transparency and prompt warnings about the reintroduction of restrictions”.
Read more at thenationalherald.com
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Photo Source: pixabay.com
