PM's Advisor: Easing Restrictions Doesn't Mean Victory over Coronavirus

"Citizens should not consider the easing of restrictions as a victory over coronavirus," Advisor to the Prime Minister, Irakli Chikovani, said today of the first phase of easing quarantine restrictions in the country. 

He noted after the meeting of the Interagency Coordinating Council that citizens should use the restrictions in a meaningful way.

"Our citizens should not perceive the process of lifting certain restrictions as a victory over COVID-19: this is just the first stage and an opportunity that we should use wisely. We should all protect the social distance; we should all ensure maximum vigilance so that the virus does not spread in our country,” Chikovani said.

The first phase of lifting restrictions and opening the economy started today.

From 27 April, the movement of private cars and taxis, online shopping, delivery services and open agrarian markets are allowed in the country. 

In addition, as an exception, individuals may enter and exit four major cities of Georgia: Tbilisi, Rustavi, Batumi and Kutaisi on April 27-28, if and when they are returning to their actual places of domicile.

"On April 27, we will begin the first phase of easing restrictions and opening up the economy, which means that from April 27, it will be fully allowed to drive cars. In addition, the operation of taxis, online shopping - wholesale and retail, delivery of any product and operation of open-type agrarian markets will be fully allowed," Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia announced on Friday. 

This is the first stage of the government's 6-phase plan for reopening the Georgian economy. 

The plan will be activated step-by-step with two-week intervals over the next three months.

By Ana Dumbadze 

Related Story: Some Restrictions, Including on Cars, to Be Lifted from April 27