Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the country has been hit by the "fourth wave" of the virus as Europe continues to reel under the coronavirus pandemic.

French President Emmanuel Macron urged his countrymen to get vaccinated amid rising hospitalisations in the country. Germany,&nbsp;which has been hit by surging COVID-19 cases, reported a record-high 39,676 cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-once-again-at-epicentre-of-coronavirus-pandemic-who-426681">Also Read |&nbsp;Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO</a>

The French government has pushed for booster shots for over 65-year-olds to enter restaurants, trains and for attending&nbsp;cultural events and has urged those over 50 to get the third jab.

Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis asserted that his government was focused on increasing the vaccination rate while conceding the country was facing the fourth wave.

Watch:&nbsp;IVF patients miss out on proper medical counselling due to COVID-19 in UK

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Reports said COVID-19 cases have also surged in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Slovakia reported over 7,000 coronavirus cases as the Czech Republic recorded over 14,000 cases amid increased hospitalisations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-covid-19-cases-surge-in-europe-who-top-official-urges-us-to-pay-attention-427863">Also Read:&nbsp;As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention</a>

Hungary reported over 8,300 coronavirus infections as eastern Europe continues to grapple with the virus.

The death toll in both countries has climbed in the past few days as some hospitals reported they were halting non-urgent care due to pressure on&nbsp;hospitals to admit coronavirus patients.

The virus has now claimed over 5 million lives worldwide since it was first reported in China in December 2019. The US is the hardest-hit country in the world with 757,400 deaths followed by Brazil with 609,756 fatalities.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the country has been hit by the "fourth wave" of the virus as Europe continues to reel under the coronavirus pandemic.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the country has been hit by the "fourth wave" of the virus as Europe continues to reel under the coronavirus pandemic. French President Emmanuel Macron urged his countrymen to get vaccinated amid rising hospitalisations in the country. Germany, which has been hit by surging COVID-19 cases, reported a record-high 39,676 cases. Also Read | Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO The French government has pushed for booster shots for over 65-year-olds to enter restaurants, trains and for attending cultural events and has urged those over 50 to get the third jab. Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis asserted that his government was focused on increasing the vaccination rate while conceding the country was facing the fourth wave. Watch: IVF patients miss out on proper medical counselling due to COVID-19 in UK Reports said COVID-19 cases have also surged in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Slovakia reported over 7,000 coronavirus cases as the Czech Republic recorded over 14,000 cases amid increased hospitalisations. Also Read: As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention Hungary reported over 8,300 coronavirus infections as eastern Europe continues to grapple with the virus. The death toll in both countries has climbed in the past few days as some hospitals reported they were halting non-urgent care due to pressure on hospitals to admit coronavirus patients. The virus has now claimed over 5 million lives worldwide since it was first reported in China in December 2019. The US is the hardest-hit country in the world with 757,400 deaths followed by Brazil with 609,756 fatalities. (With inputs from Agencies)

Greece faces fourth wave as Germany, Czech Republic battle virus surge

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-unveils-digital-certificate-as-europe-seeks-to-welcome-tourists-388077">Greek</a> authorities sent police to holiday islands amid a surge in coronavirus cases as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) marked the country's Aegean island "dark red".

The government sent police to Mykonos and Ios in order to ensure locals comply with coronavirus protocols. A police force was also reportedly sent to Cycladesc isle&nbsp;as the European disease prevention agency declared that only essential travel was advisable in Aegean islands.

Watch:

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Greek minister Nikos Hardalias added that popular tourist destinations - Mykonos and Ios were just "one step" away from restrictions with worrying situation developing in other islands including Rhodes, Santorini, Zakynthos and Tinos.

The popular tourist island of Mykonos was earlier placed on red alert despite it being considered a vaccination model. The authorities had imposed night curfew and among other restrictions and lifted it later.

Authorities decided to vaccinate 12 and 15-year-olds this week with the Delta variant raging in the country.

The country's parliament had earlier passed a bill to ensure mandatory vaccinations of health workers, including those working in retirement homes as the country ramps up its inoculation drive.

ECDC had predicted a sharp rise in coronavirus cases by August 1 with nearly five times as many new infections in Europe due to the highly transmissible Delta variant.

"The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC report said marking Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Spain among others which could witness increased deaths.

The health body said 90 per cent of new COVID-19 cases by the end of August could be due to the Delta variant.

"In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the European health agency asserted.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Greek authorities sent police to holiday islands amid a surge in coronavirus cases as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) marked the country's Aegean island "dark red".

Greek authorities sent police to holiday islands amid a surge in coronavirus cases as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) marked the country's Aegean island "dark red". The government sent police to Mykonos and Ios in order to ensure locals comply with coronavirus protocols. A police force was also reportedly sent to Cycladesc isle as the European disease prevention agency declared that only essential travel was advisable in Aegean islands. Watch: Greek minister Nikos Hardalias added that popular tourist destinations - Mykonos and Ios were just "one step" away from restrictions with worrying situation developing in other islands including Rhodes, Santorini, Zakynthos and Tinos. The popular tourist island of Mykonos was earlier placed on red alert despite it being considered a vaccination model. The authorities had imposed night curfew and among other restrictions and lifted it later. Authorities decided to vaccinate 12 and 15-year-olds this week with the Delta variant raging in the country. The country's parliament had earlier passed a bill to ensure mandatory vaccinations of health workers, including those working in retirement homes as the country ramps up its inoculation drive. ECDC had predicted a sharp rise in coronavirus cases by August 1 with nearly five times as many new infections in Europe due to the highly transmissible Delta variant. "The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC report said marking Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Spain among others which could witness increased deaths. The health body said 90 per cent of new COVID-19 cases by the end of August could be due to the Delta variant. "In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the European health agency asserted. (With inputs from Agencies)

Greece sends police to popular tourist hotspots as COVID-19 erupts

As Europe begins to reopen its borders for tourists, the Greek government on Friday unveiled a digital health certificate as the country seeks to welcome tourists after over a year of pandemic downturn.

Watch:

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Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the new certificate will be open to all EU citizens from July 1. &nbsp;

The certificate was approved by the European Parliament and EU members which contains a QR code indicating the person has been vaccinated and tested negative for the virus.

The new passport is aimed at preventing EU states from imposing additional travel restrictions.

"The code for the verification application has been provided to us by the EU and we have customized for every member state so we have the Greek application," digital governance minister Pierrakakis said.

"By pressing the QR scanner, and this is not a classical QR, this is a cryptographic QR you can only read it with the application," the digital governance minister added.

Several European countries including France and Spain are set to test the system.

Greece had lifted quarantine rules for non-EU visitors who have been vaccinated or test negative for coronavirus on May 14 as it prepared to boost its economy even as authorities promised to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-approves-single-shot-johnson-johnson-coronavirus-vaccine-388043">vaccinate</a> all citizens by end July in order to ensure safety for tourists.

"The EU digital Covid certificate is nothing more than a fast travel aid. It will make travel much easier, especially during the summer, particularly, again, let me repeat how important this is for us," PM Mitsotakis said.

Greece was hit badly due to the virus with its tourist sector which contributes greatly to its GDP being hit with just 4 billion euros in revenues in 2020 down from 18 billion euros in 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As Europe begins to reopen its borders for tourists, the Greek government on Friday unveiled a digital health certificate as the country seeks to welcome tourists after over a year of pandemic downturn.

As Europe begins to reopen its borders for tourists, the Greek government on Friday unveiled a digital health certificate as the country seeks to welcome tourists after over a year of pandemic downturn. Watch: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the new certificate will be open to all EU citizens from July 1. The certificate was approved by the European Parliament and EU members which contains a QR code indicating the person has been vaccinated and tested negative for the virus. The new passport is aimed at preventing EU states from imposing additional travel restrictions. "The code for the verification application has been provided to us by the EU and we have customized for every member state so we have the Greek application," digital governance minister Pierrakakis said. "By pressing the QR scanner, and this is not a classical QR, this is a cryptographic QR you can only read it with the application," the digital governance minister added. Several European countries including France and Spain are set to test the system. Greece had lifted quarantine rules for non-EU visitors who have been vaccinated or test negative for coronavirus on May 14 as it prepared to boost its economy even as authorities promised to vaccinate all citizens by end July in order to ensure safety for tourists. "The EU digital Covid certificate is nothing more than a fast travel aid. It will make travel much easier, especially during the summer, particularly, again, let me repeat how important this is for us," PM Mitsotakis said. Greece was hit badly due to the virus with its tourist sector which contributes greatly to its GDP being hit with just 4 billion euros in revenues in 2020 down from 18 billion euros in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Greece unveils digital certificate as Europe seeks to welcome tourists

Greece on Monday reopened restaurants and cafe&nbsp;terraces&nbsp;after six months amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-hosts-first-g7-foreign-ministers-meeting-since-start-of-pandemic-382526">coronavirus</a> pandemic as Orthodox Christians in the country celebrated Easter.

Watch:

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The country has been under coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-locals-urge-government-to-let-them-hug-as-covid-lockdown-eases-382205">restrictions</a> since November as it experienced the third wave which hit Greece hard with over 10,000 deaths reported.&nbsp;

The government had allowed non-essential businesses and schools to reopen last months as it slowly moved to remove restrictions although authorities have continued curfew till 11pm in order to keep the COVID-19 situation under control.

On Monday, however, only cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating were allowed to reopen even as several restaurants closed permanently in Athens and Thessaloniki.&nbsp;

The restaurants had to comply with stringent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pictures-with-smelling-abilities-hit-by-covid-19-wine-testers-fear-the-loss-of-livelihood-382444">COVID-19</a> rules with only six people allowed per table and waiters to mandatorily wear masks and coronavirus testing to take place once a week.

Greece which depends heavily on tourism lifted a mandatory seven-day quarantine for travellers from the European Union, US, UK, Israel, Serbia and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-to-allow-immunised-citizens-to-travel-abroad-382392">United Arab Emirates</a>, but tourists have to show proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test.

The government had said earlier that it plans to ramp up its vaccine rollout to build "wall of immunity" while adding that it would finish vaccinating all the over-60s by May.&nbsp;

Authorities has sped up the vaccination drive ahead of the summer tourist season with people over 30 currently eligible for the jab amid reports European Union has proposed travellers who are fully vaccinated with EU-approved jabs be able to enter the bloc soon.

The European Union has four vaccines authorised by the European Medicines Agency(EMA) namely Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson. The EMA is also contemplating the use of &nbsp;Russia's Sputnik V vaccine.

Greece has over 345,000 COVID-19 cases currently with over 10,400 fatalities. The country plans to formally reopen on May 14 with several businesses eager to welcome summer travellers after losing out last year.

Greece on Monday reopened restaurants and cafe terraces after six months amid the coronavirus pandemic as Orthodox Christians in the country celebrated Easter. Watch: The country has been under coronavirus restrictions since November as it experienced the third wave which hit Greece hard with over 10,000 deaths reported.

Greece on Monday reopened restaurants and cafe terraces after six months amid the coronavirus pandemic as Orthodox Christians in the country celebrated Easter. Watch: The country has been under coronavirus restrictions since November as it experienced the third wave which hit Greece hard with over 10,000 deaths reported. The government had allowed non-essential businesses and schools to reopen last months as it slowly moved to remove restrictions although authorities have continued curfew till 11pm in order to keep the COVID-19 situation under control. On Monday, however, only cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating were allowed to reopen even as several restaurants closed permanently in Athens and Thessaloniki. The restaurants had to comply with stringent COVID-19 rules with only six people allowed per table and waiters to mandatorily wear masks and coronavirus testing to take place once a week. Greece which depends heavily on tourism lifted a mandatory seven-day quarantine for travellers from the European Union, US, UK, Israel, Serbia and the United Arab Emirates, but tourists have to show proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test. The government had said earlier that it plans to ramp up its vaccine rollout to build "wall of immunity" while adding that it would finish vaccinating all the over-60s by May. Authorities has sped up the vaccination drive ahead of the summer tourist season with people over 30 currently eligible for the jab amid reports European Union has proposed travellers who are fully vaccinated with EU-approved jabs be able to enter the bloc soon. The European Union has four vaccines authorised by the European Medicines Agency(EMA) namely Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. The EMA is also contemplating the use of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. Greece has over 345,000 COVID-19 cases currently with over 10,400 fatalities. The country plans to formally reopen on May 14 with several businesses eager to welcome summer travellers after losing out last year.

Greece reopens restaurant terraces amid joy after long Covid lockdown

Greek taxi driver Konstantinos Bekio is doing his bit to lift his passengers’ spirits amid the gloom of coronavirus lockdown, turning his cab into a nightclub complete with strobe lights and music.

“I saw that people were always stressed, sad, everyone was in a bad mood,” he said as he drove through the nighttime streets of Thessaloniki in northern Greece where he began the service during the first coronavirus lockdown in March.

“I started to put on music - to turn up the volume, and I saw people enjoyed it, they were having fun, they were having a good time, even if it was a short route, they would get out happy. That is how we started the private club taxi.”

Although Greece has not suffered as badly as many other European countries from COVID-19, its nightlife culture has taken a hit. Bars, restaurants and nightclubs have been shut since November and no-one is sure when they will reopen.

While a taxi ride in a disco may not be everyone’s idea of a good night out, Bekios, whose 11-year-old son helped with the decoration, just wants people to have a good time. He takes requests from a vast playlist built up over eight years driving his cab but charges no extra for the experience.

“It improves your mood in the first five minutes,” said 24-year-old Ioanna Kargiannidou, a regular customer.

“The situation is very difficult and stressful for everyone, our mood is low,” she said. “So this is a good solution to escape our daily routine.”

Greek taxi driver Konstantinos Bekio is doing his bit to lift his passengers’ spirits amid the gloom of coronavirus lockdown, turning his cab into a nightclub complete with strobe lights and music.

Greek taxi driver Konstantinos Bekio is doing his bit to lift his passengers’ spirits amid the gloom of coronavirus lockdown, turning his cab into a nightclub complete with strobe lights and music. “I saw that people were always stressed, sad, everyone was in a bad mood,” he said as he drove through the nighttime streets of Thessaloniki in northern Greece where he began the service during the first coronavirus lockdown in March. “I started to put on music - to turn up the volume, and I saw people enjoyed it, they were having fun, they were having a good time, even if it was a short route, they would get out happy. That is how we started the private club taxi.” Although Greece has not suffered as badly as many other European countries from COVID-19, its nightlife culture has taken a hit. Bars, restaurants and nightclubs have been shut since November and no-one is sure when they will reopen. While a taxi ride in a disco may not be everyone’s idea of a good night out, Bekios, whose 11-year-old son helped with the decoration, just wants people to have a good time. He takes requests from a vast playlist built up over eight years driving his cab but charges no extra for the experience. “It improves your mood in the first five minutes,” said 24-year-old Ioanna Kargiannidou, a regular customer. “The situation is very difficult and stressful for everyone, our mood is low,” she said. “So this is a good solution to escape our daily routine.”

Nightclub taxi drives away the blues in lockdown Greece

This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the&nbsp;first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season.&nbsp;

The Greek capital's first official mosque was forced to close down within days of its&nbsp;inauguration in November.&nbsp; However, as Greece relaxed its nationwide lockdown — which was imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — the Muslim community was allowed to return to the mosque.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/locked-down-athens-is-lit-up-for-the-holidays-without-fanfare-349982">WATCH|</a>

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As the holiday season came closer, the government decided to let the faithful return to their religious place, but with a cap on maximum attendees allowed. "We’ve decided, without discrimination, that every place of worship can conduct services and prayers as long as congregations are limited to 25 people," Giorgos Kalantzis, the secretary-general at the ministry of education and religious affairs told a media house.

The decision has been welcomed by the community and the&nbsp;mosque’s government-appointed imam&nbsp;Mohammed Sissi Zaki, who had been negatively affected by the sudden closure. "When we finally opened in early November it was for five days and just one Friday prayers," said Zaki. "After the lockdown this is a big, big blessing."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/orchestra-brings-festive-cheer-to-athens-352377">WATCH|</a>

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"It is with great happiness, satisfaction and relief that we can say we are here at all," the 55-year-old imam said upon reopening of the mosque.

The first official mosque has opened in Athens after years of repeated requests from the community — some of whom claim the mosques were wiped off from the country almost&nbsp;200 years following the withdrawal of Ottoman forces from the city.

This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season.

This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season. The Greek capital's first official mosque was forced to close down within days of its inauguration in November. However, as Greece relaxed its nationwide lockdown — which was imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — the Muslim community was allowed to return to the mosque. WATCH| × As the holiday season came closer, the government decided to let the faithful return to their religious place, but with a cap on maximum attendees allowed. "We’ve decided, without discrimination, that every place of worship can conduct services and prayers as long as congregations are limited to 25 people," Giorgos Kalantzis, the secretary-general at the ministry of education and religious affairs told a media house. The decision has been welcomed by the community and the mosque’s government-appointed imam Mohammed Sissi Zaki, who had been negatively affected by the sudden closure. "When we finally opened in early November it was for five days and just one Friday prayers," said Zaki. "After the lockdown this is a big, big blessing." WATCH| × "It is with great happiness, satisfaction and relief that we can say we are here at all," the 55-year-old imam said upon reopening of the mosque. The first official mosque has opened in Athens after years of repeated requests from the community — some of whom claim the mosques were wiped off from the country almost 200 years following the withdrawal of Ottoman forces from the city.

Athens' first official mosque allowed to reopen for holiday season

As Europe struggles with coronavirus, Greece entered its second lockdown even as teachers nationwide protested against the closure of secondary schools.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tense-us-election-vote-count-coronavirus-cases-exceed-over-100000-for-third-consecutive-day-341413">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid tense US election vote count, coronavirus cases exceed over 100,000 for third consecutive day</a>

"I've chosen to take drastic measures sooner rather than later," Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said.

The stringent measures include the closure of retail businesses although supermarkets and pharmacies are allowed to stay open.

The country has suffered a 96 per cent increase in COVID-19 cases with up to 2,000 cases per day. On Thursday, Greece recorded 2,917 new coronavirus infections with 2,646 on Friday.

In Thessaloniki, authorities have imposed stringent measures, including suspension of flights from regional airports amid surge in COVID-19 cases.

There has been 702 fatalities due to the virus in Greece.

Greece had earlier expanded its night curfew and shut restaurants, bars, theatres and museums.

The number of coronavirus cases in the country has now surged to 46,892.

Government spokesman Stelios Petsas had asserted earlier that implementation of the measures would ensure an "optimistic" December. However, businesses feel it would severely hit them with an estimated cost of 1.5 billion euros.

The Greek government had earlier released over 14 billion euros to support the economic impact of the first wave of the virus.

As Europe struggles with coronavirus, Greece entered its second lockdown even as teachers nationwide protested against the closure of secondary schools. Also Read: Amid tense US election vote count, coronavirus cases exceed over 100,000 for third consecutive day "I've chosen to take drastic measures sooner rather than later," Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said.

As Europe struggles with coronavirus, Greece entered its second lockdown even as teachers nationwide protested against the closure of secondary schools. Also Read: Amid tense US election vote count, coronavirus cases exceed over 100,000 for third consecutive day "I've chosen to take drastic measures sooner rather than later," Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said. The stringent measures include the closure of retail businesses although supermarkets and pharmacies are allowed to stay open. The country has suffered a 96 per cent increase in COVID-19 cases with up to 2,000 cases per day. On Thursday, Greece recorded 2,917 new coronavirus infections with 2,646 on Friday. In Thessaloniki, authorities have imposed stringent measures, including suspension of flights from regional airports amid surge in COVID-19 cases. There has been 702 fatalities due to the virus in Greece. Greece had earlier expanded its night curfew and shut restaurants, bars, theatres and museums. The number of coronavirus cases in the country has now surged to 46,892. Government spokesman Stelios Petsas had asserted earlier that implementation of the measures would ensure an "optimistic" December. However, businesses feel it would severely hit them with an estimated cost of 1.5 billion euros. The Greek government had earlier released over 14 billion euros to support the economic impact of the first wave of the virus.

As Europe struggles with virus, Greece enters second lockdown

Drive-in concert! Greeks enjoy concert while practicing social distancing

Greece has managed to win the battle against coronavirus, as the country has less than 170 deaths over two months into the pandemic.

Keeping this in mind, Greek Prime Minister&nbsp;Kyriakos Mitsotakis, on Wednesday, announced that the country will be restarting its tourism industry from mid-June, and will resume international flights from July 01.

This decision has been taken by the Greek government to boost its economy that took a hit due to the lockdown that was brought in place to contain the spread of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-to-open-organised-beaches-with-strict-social-distancing-norms-on-may-16-298710">Also read:&nbsp;Greece to open 'organised' beaches with strict social distancing norms on May 16</a>"The tourism period begins June 15, when seasonal hotels can reopen, and direct international flights to our tourist destinations will gradually begin July 1," Mitsotakis said in a televised address.

"We will win the economy war just as we won the health battle," he assured the Greek population.

It is being believed that the country is resuming its tourism industry as it suffers from a decade-long debt crisis, and needs the tourism industry to run its economy.

A list of nations resuming flights to Greece will be announced by the end of May, said Tourism Minister Harry Theocharis.

He also stated that Athens would focus on reviving a travel front "from the Balkans to the Baltic." Bulgarians and northern Europeans including Germans will be among the first visitors, the minister said, in addition to Israelis and Cypriots.

While all incoming travellers will not be tested or scanned for virus, some samples will be taken as a preventive measure.&nbsp;Around 600 beds will also be specifically set aside for coronavirus care on Greek islands, which attract the most number of tourists.

All museums will also reopen from June 15.

The Greek government has also announced a support package of around 24 billion euros, including EU funds, to help uplift the crippling economy, and make sure that the unemployment rate and the economic contraction doesn't affect the country much.&nbsp;

Greece has managed to win the battle against coronavirus, as the country has less than 170 deaths over two months into the pandemic. Keeping this in mind, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, on Wednesday, announced that the country will be restarting its tourism industry from mid-June, and will resume international flights from July 01.

Greece has managed to win the battle against coronavirus, as the country has less than 170 deaths over two months into the pandemic. Keeping this in mind, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, on Wednesday, announced that the country will be restarting its tourism industry from mid-June, and will resume international flights from July 01. This decision has been taken by the Greek government to boost its economy that took a hit due to the lockdown that was brought in place to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: Greece to open 'organised' beaches with strict social distancing norms on May 16"The tourism period begins June 15, when seasonal hotels can reopen, and direct international flights to our tourist destinations will gradually begin July 1," Mitsotakis said in a televised address. "We will win the economy war just as we won the health battle," he assured the Greek population. It is being believed that the country is resuming its tourism industry as it suffers from a decade-long debt crisis, and needs the tourism industry to run its economy. A list of nations resuming flights to Greece will be announced by the end of May, said Tourism Minister Harry Theocharis. He also stated that Athens would focus on reviving a travel front "from the Balkans to the Baltic." Bulgarians and northern Europeans including Germans will be among the first visitors, the minister said, in addition to Israelis and Cypriots. While all incoming travellers will not be tested or scanned for virus, some samples will be taken as a preventive measure. Around 600 beds will also be specifically set aside for coronavirus care on Greek islands, which attract the most number of tourists. All museums will also reopen from June 15. The Greek government has also announced a support package of around 24 billion euros, including EU funds, to help uplift the crippling economy, and make sure that the unemployment rate and the economic contraction doesn't affect the country much.

Greece to resume international travel from July 01; no screening to be done

Greece shows the way! Social distancing and measures followed even as churches reopen

Greek authorities announced on Thursday that they&nbsp;will open 515&nbsp;organised beaches of&nbsp;the country&nbsp;on May 16.

The public will be allowed to visit the beaches from 8am onwards but they will be required to follow the new social distancing norms and all the recommendations of the Infectious Diseases Committee of&nbsp;the Health Ministry.

This announcement comes among predictions of&nbsp;an extreme heatwave to&nbsp;sweep Greece this weekend with temperatures close to 40°C.

"This will be an important test which we must come through ... We shall have to show that with rules and a serious approach we shall be able to enjoy our country's beauty in total security," government spokesman Stelios Petsas said.

Greece&nbsp;is applying strict rules to beach use despite having escaped relatively lightly during the COVID-19 pandemic with 152 deaths to date and 2,744 cases.

A maximum 40 people will be allowed per 10,800 square feet&nbsp;of beach while parasols must be placed four metres apart.

Loungers will be sprayed with disinfectant after every use and there will be no cafe or drinks services.&nbsp;

Athens is keen to prove itself proactive and reassure visitors as the summer season approaches.

As&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;began to exit confinement on May 4, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said he was committed to doing all he could to ensure the tourist season can begin from July 1.&nbsp;

The government is still fine-tuning its approach, notably with regard to virus-related rules governing transport links.

Under provisional rules, restaurants and cafes are to resume business from June 1 and hotels from the end of June.

As&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;races to rescue its summer plans, the International Monetary Fund has already warned the country stands to make huge losses given that tourism accounts for a 12 per cent slice of GDP, comparable with Spain.

According to the IMF, the pandemic shock to the economy and six weeks of confinement will see Greek GDP sink around 10 percent this year before a 5.5 per cent recovery in 2021.&nbsp;

Greek authorities announced on Thursday that they will open 515 organised beaches of the country on May 16. The public will be allowed to visit the beaches from 8am onwards but they will be required to follow the new social distancing norms and all the recommendations of the Infectious Diseases Committee of the Health Ministry.

Greek authorities announced on Thursday that they will open 515 organised beaches of the country on May 16. The public will be allowed to visit the beaches from 8am onwards but they will be required to follow the new social distancing norms and all the recommendations of the Infectious Diseases Committee of the Health Ministry. This announcement comes among predictions of an extreme heatwave to sweep Greece this weekend with temperatures close to 40°C. "This will be an important test which we must come through ... We shall have to show that with rules and a serious approach we shall be able to enjoy our country's beauty in total security," government spokesman Stelios Petsas said. Greece is applying strict rules to beach use despite having escaped relatively lightly during the COVID-19 pandemic with 152 deaths to date and 2,744 cases. A maximum 40 people will be allowed per 10,800 square feet of beach while parasols must be placed four metres apart. Loungers will be sprayed with disinfectant after every use and there will be no cafe or drinks services. Athens is keen to prove itself proactive and reassure visitors as the summer season approaches. As Greece began to exit confinement on May 4, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said he was committed to doing all he could to ensure the tourist season can begin from July 1. The government is still fine-tuning its approach, notably with regard to virus-related rules governing transport links. Under provisional rules, restaurants and cafes are to resume business from June 1 and hotels from the end of June. As Greece races to rescue its summer plans, the International Monetary Fund has already warned the country stands to make huge losses given that tourism accounts for a 12 per cent slice of GDP, comparable with Spain. According to the IMF, the pandemic shock to the economy and six weeks of confinement will see Greek GDP sink around 10 percent this year before a 5.5 per cent recovery in 2021.

Greece to open 'organised' beaches with strict social distancing norms on May 16

Greece declared today that it would gradually ease the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-coronavirus-end-in-us-uk-france-india-study-predicts-dates-month-295324"> coronavirus</a> lockdown from May 4.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reports-586-covid-19-deaths-in-last-24-hours-death-toll-crosses-21600-295396">Also Read:&nbsp;UK reports 586 COVID-19 deaths in last 24 hours; death toll crosses 21,600</a>

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a televised address to the nations said: "Having contained the first wave of the virus, we are now ready to move to the second phase, the gradual de-escalation of lockdown measures."

Greece imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 23 as the COVID-19 cases increased. The death toll in Greece due to coronavirus has reached 136 which is a very small number compared to Italy, Spain and France who have reported thousands of deaths in the past two months.

"Exit from quarantine will be carried out step by step. Nobody can rule out a potential revival of the threat," &nbsp;Mitsotakis said.

&nbsp;"Shopping centres will be allowed to resume trading on June 1," Mitsotakis added.

The PM allowed bookshops, electronic goods stores, vehicle testing centers and hair salons to&nbsp;open.

The country's economy has been hit hard due to the lockdown&nbsp;particularly the tourism sector which accounts for major part of the country's revenue.

The move by the Greek government comes just hours after French PM Édouard Philippe announced the country would be easing restrictions from May 11. The French PM said shops, markets can reopen May 11, but not restaurants and bars.

The French premier declared that face masks will be mandatory in public transport. "We will have to learn to live with the virus," Philippe told the French Parliament on Tuesday.

However, Philippe maintained that professional football and rugby cannot be allowed to start before September.

Meanwhile, Spanish PM&nbsp;Pedro Sanchez said the country would stage virus rollback in four phases till June end.

"In the best-case scenario, this de-escalation phase will take a minimum of six weeks and the maximum duration we want to see is eight weeks for the whole of Spain," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said.

Greece declared today that it would gradually ease the coronavirus lockdown from May 4. Also Read: UK reports 586 COVID-19 deaths in last 24 hours; death toll crosses 21,600 Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a televised address to the nations said: "Having contained the first wave of the virus, we are now ready to move to the second phase, the gradual de-escalation of lockdown measures.

Greece declared today that it would gradually ease the coronavirus lockdown from May 4. Also Read: UK reports 586 COVID-19 deaths in last 24 hours; death toll crosses 21,600 Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a televised address to the nations said: "Having contained the first wave of the virus, we are now ready to move to the second phase, the gradual de-escalation of lockdown measures." Greece imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 23 as the COVID-19 cases increased. The death toll in Greece due to coronavirus has reached 136 which is a very small number compared to Italy, Spain and France who have reported thousands of deaths in the past two months. "Exit from quarantine will be carried out step by step. Nobody can rule out a potential revival of the threat," Mitsotakis said. "Shopping centres will be allowed to resume trading on June 1," Mitsotakis added. The PM allowed bookshops, electronic goods stores, vehicle testing centers and hair salons to open. The country's economy has been hit hard due to the lockdown particularly the tourism sector which accounts for major part of the country's revenue. The move by the Greek government comes just hours after French PM Édouard Philippe announced the country would be easing restrictions from May 11. The French PM said shops, markets can reopen May 11, but not restaurants and bars. The French premier declared that face masks will be mandatory in public transport. "We will have to learn to live with the virus," Philippe told the French Parliament on Tuesday. However, Philippe maintained that professional football and rugby cannot be allowed to start before September. Meanwhile, Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez said the country would stage virus rollback in four phases till June end. "In the best-case scenario, this de-escalation phase will take a minimum of six weeks and the maximum duration we want to see is eight weeks for the whole of Spain," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said.

After France, Greece to ease lockdown restrictions; Spain rollback until end June

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-china-approves-trials-for-two-more-coronavirus-vaccines-292466">coronavirus</a> has wreaked havoc in Europe. Almost all European countries have death tolls going up to thousands. But there is one country that is shining - Greece.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-coronavirus-cases-much-higher-than-being-reported-study-finds-292472">Also Read:&nbsp;Brazil's coronavirus cases much higher than being reported, study finds</a>

With just 2000 plus cases&nbsp;and 99 deaths, Greece is breaking the chain. Experts are calling the "Greek model" a textbook example of crisis management.

If the South Korean model is about tests. Greece is all about speed. The European country has successfully broken the chain of contagion in the continent. It's a country of 11 million. Greece had a little above 2,000 cases

The number of deaths stood at 99. Spain has over 1 lakh 72 thousand cases, wit over 18,000 deaths. Italy's numbers are equally grim. Nearly 1 lakh, 60,000 cases and over 20,000 deaths. France has 1,36,779 cases and 14,967 deaths. In Germany, 3.194 people have died with 130,072 cases reported. United Kindom has 88,621 cases and over 12,000 deaths.

All of these countries have fatalities running into thousands. Greece started screening people even before its first coronavirus case was recorded. People were screened and isolated.

Flights from China were monitored. Those returning from Spain and other European countries were isolated in hotels. Greece recorded its first death in late February. As early as March 10, Greece shut its school.

Within days, it shut all non-essential services. Greece went in for a lockdown way before its other European counterparts.&nbsp;

Government processes were simplified to limit the need for people to step out. An expert points out that this move alone saved 250,000 citizens from making visits to doctors with medical prescriptions available on the phone.

Greece also managed to nearly double its number of ICUs. In February, Greece had just 560 intensive care unit beds but by March, the number was raised to 910. The country hired 4,000 additional doctors and nurses.&nbsp;

The government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that it would harness the crisis. It decided to enact long overdue digital reforms. The result was two-fold - citizen were protected and the country was modernized.

Greece managed to flatten the curve because of its quick response. The country managed to survive the coronavirus blow despite being embroiled in debt and despite its large elderly population.

The coronavirus has wreaked havoc in Europe. Almost all European countries have death tolls going up to thousands. But there is one country that is shining - Greece.

The coronavirus has wreaked havoc in Europe. Almost all European countries have death tolls going up to thousands. But there is one country that is shining - Greece. Also Read: Brazil's coronavirus cases much higher than being reported, study finds With just 2000 plus cases and 99 deaths, Greece is breaking the chain. Experts are calling the "Greek model" a textbook example of crisis management. If the South Korean model is about tests. Greece is all about speed. The European country has successfully broken the chain of contagion in the continent. It's a country of 11 million. Greece had a little above 2,000 cases The number of deaths stood at 99. Spain has over 1 lakh 72 thousand cases, wit over 18,000 deaths. Italy's numbers are equally grim. Nearly 1 lakh, 60,000 cases and over 20,000 deaths. France has 1,36,779 cases and 14,967 deaths. In Germany, 3.194 people have died with 130,072 cases reported. United Kindom has 88,621 cases and over 12,000 deaths. All of these countries have fatalities running into thousands. Greece started screening people even before its first coronavirus case was recorded. People were screened and isolated. Flights from China were monitored. Those returning from Spain and other European countries were isolated in hotels. Greece recorded its first death in late February. As early as March 10, Greece shut its school. Within days, it shut all non-essential services. Greece went in for a lockdown way before its other European counterparts. Government processes were simplified to limit the need for people to step out. An expert points out that this move alone saved 250,000 citizens from making visits to doctors with medical prescriptions available on the phone. Greece also managed to nearly double its number of ICUs. In February, Greece had just 560 intensive care unit beds but by March, the number was raised to 910. The country hired 4,000 additional doctors and nurses. The government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that it would harness the crisis. It decided to enact long overdue digital reforms. The result was two-fold - citizen were protected and the country was modernized. Greece managed to flatten the curve because of its quick response. The country managed to survive the coronavirus blow despite being embroiled in debt and despite its large elderly population.

How the 'Greek model' has helped keep coronavirus at bay

Greece announced two more coronavirus deaths on Saturday bringing the toll to three, as an unprecedented lockdown takes effect.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/greece-to-hand-reins-to-first-woman-president-amid-coronavirus-fears-286086">Greece to hand reins to first woman president amid coronavirus fears</a>

A 67-year-old man died on Zakynthos island early on Saturday and a 90-year-old man died in the northern city of Ptolemaida, the health ministry said.

Both men had health problems.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/flame-for-2020-tokyo-olympics-lit-in-greece-amid-virus-lockdown-285949">Flame for 2020 Tokyo Olympics lit in Greece amid virus lockdown</a>

The man in Zakinthos was believed to have contracted the virus after visiting a hospital in western Greece where the first fatality was confirmed, Athens News Agency reported.

Greece closed shops, bars and restaurants on Friday as well as tourist sites such as the Acropolis as coronavirus cases jumped from 117 to 190.

Only supermarkets, pharmacies and medical facilities have been allowed to stay open.

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The government had already shut down schools and universities, courts, cinemas, gyms and other indoor public gathering areas for two weeks in an effort to curb the outbreak.

A torch relay for the Tokyo 2020 Games has been cancelled after Hollywood actor Gerard Butler, who starred as the ancient Spartan King Leonidas in the 2007 epic "300", was mobbed as he lit a cauldron in the city of Sparta.

The Greek Olympic Committee said crowds had ignored "repeated warnings" not to gather at stopovers in the torch relay.

The flame for the 2020 Tokyo Games was lit in ancient Olympia on Thursday without spectators after dozens of people tested positive for COVID-19 in the region.

Meanwhile, Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said his wife had tested positive for the coronavirus and he would self-isolate for two weeks as a precaution.

Greece announced two more coronavirus deaths on Saturday bringing the toll to three, as an unprecedented lockdown takes effect. Also read: Greece to hand reins to first woman president amid coronavirus fears A 67-year-old man died on Zakynthos island early on Saturday and a 90-year-old man died in the northern city of Ptolemaida, the health ministry said.

Greece announced two more coronavirus deaths on Saturday bringing the toll to three, as an unprecedented lockdown takes effect. Also read: Greece to hand reins to first woman president amid coronavirus fears A 67-year-old man died on Zakynthos island early on Saturday and a 90-year-old man died in the northern city of Ptolemaida, the health ministry said. Both men had health problems. Also read: Flame for 2020 Tokyo Olympics lit in Greece amid virus lockdown The man in Zakinthos was believed to have contracted the virus after visiting a hospital in western Greece where the first fatality was confirmed, Athens News Agency reported. Greece closed shops, bars and restaurants on Friday as well as tourist sites such as the Acropolis as coronavirus cases jumped from 117 to 190. Only supermarkets, pharmacies and medical facilities have been allowed to stay open. × The government had already shut down schools and universities, courts, cinemas, gyms and other indoor public gathering areas for two weeks in an effort to curb the outbreak. A torch relay for the Tokyo 2020 Games has been cancelled after Hollywood actor Gerard Butler, who starred as the ancient Spartan King Leonidas in the 2007 epic "300", was mobbed as he lit a cauldron in the city of Sparta. The Greek Olympic Committee said crowds had ignored "repeated warnings" not to gather at stopovers in the torch relay. The flame for the 2020 Tokyo Games was lit in ancient Olympia on Thursday without spectators after dozens of people tested positive for COVID-19 in the region. Meanwhile, Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas said his wife had tested positive for the coronavirus and he would self-isolate for two weeks as a precaution.

Coronavirus death toll in Greece rises to three