Green, red and white smoke – the colours of the Italian flag – trailed air force flypasts over Rome on Tuesday, as residents of the capital gathered to mark the country's 74th Republic Day.

Italy's aerobatic air force marks Republic Day

Coronavirus hit one of the largest economies in Europe that is Italy. Now Italy is slowly coming back on track. The car industry has shown tentative signs of recovery through full recovery seems a distant dream.

EU car sales far from recovery: Italy among COVID-19 impacted countries

Facing its deepest recession since World War II and with business confidence collapsing, the coronavirus pandemic is hitting Italy's economy hard.

Business confidence in the eurozone's third largest economy in May plummeted to its lowest level since official statistics institute ISTAT started the index in March 2005.

The figure is "alarming", said small business federation Confesercenti.

"The health and economic emergency has swept businesses away, especially in shops, services and tourism," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-news-return-to-normal-life-as-italys-serie-a-resumes-on-june-20-301738">Also read:&nbsp;'Return to normal life' as Italy's Serie A resumes on June 20</a>

Its members are particularly concerned "by the lack of liquidity necessary to pay costs and salaries... we are close to a point of no return and that's why the measures decided by the government (loan guarantees, SME subsidies) must be operational immediately," said federation head Patrizia De Luise.

"We need to reduce bureaucracy and accelerate and simplify procedures, because if support is delayed again, many businesses will have no option but to stop," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/cannes-2020-to-unveil-lineup-next-week-301903">Also read:&nbsp;Cannes 2020 to unveil lineup next week</a>

The government last week accused banks of not acting quickly enough, but they said that they had already passed on around 400,000 loan requests worth more than 18 billion euros ($20 billion) to the state-backed Central Guarantee Fund.

A million jobs threatened 
Italy was the first European country to be hit by the pandemic and imposed a strict two-month lockdown which paralysed much of the country's economic activity.

As a result, the country is set for a drop in GDP of between nine and 13 percent, the Bank of Italy said on Friday.

Data also showed that the economy shrank 5.3 percent in the first quarter - worse than the 4.7 percent initially estimated.

It had not seen such an "exceptional" decline in the first quarter since 1995, ISTAT said.

This year's losses could amount to 170 billion euros, equivalent to the GDP of Veneto, Italy's third biggest industrial region, a Mediobanca study said.

The head of the country's main business confederation Cofindustria, Carlo Bonomi, said that up to a million jobs could be threatened nationwide.

"We're waiting for figures at the end of May but indications are that between 700,000 and a million jobs are in danger," he said.

"Jobs are only created if there is growth, innovation, investment. The car manufacturing crisis can't be solved with subsidies or furloughing. You solve it by looking to the future, by investing in new technologies," he said.

Italy is set to be the main beneficiary of a European Union 750-billion-euro recovery plan but it still may not be enough.

No aid 
Italian citizens are slightly more optimistic, but far from celebrating. The pandemic has killed over 30,000 people.

Consumer confidence went from 100.1 points in May to 94.3 in March, its lowest level since December 2013.

While the state has paid for furloughs or handouts for those no longer able to work, many have slipped through the net.

They include Eleonora Fogliacco, 35, a fitness and swimming teacher in Lombardy, the hardest hit region where gyms were ordered closed at the end of February.

"I didn't qualify for the 600-euro monthly government handout because I earned more than 10,000 euros last year," she told AFP.

"During the crisis I had peaceful days and days when I felt completely lost, without any state help. I could no longer see the future and I didn't know what to hold onto," she said.

"I don't buy anything. I depend on my partner for the shopping," said Fogliacco.

"This situation has changed everybody's way of life (and) everything will be very complicated" in the future, she added.

According to a Confcommercio-Censis poll published on Tuesday, 53 percent of Italian families see their future negatively and 68 percent see the country's future negatively.

Because of lockdown, 42 percent of families have had to reduce their work and income, 26 percent have stopped work and 24 percent have been furloughed.

Facing its deepest recession since World War II and with business confidence collapsing, the coronavirus pandemic is hitting Italy's economy hard. Business confidence in the eurozone's third largest economy in May plummeted to its lowest level since official statistics institute ISTAT started the index in March 2005.

Facing its deepest recession since World War II and with business confidence collapsing, the coronavirus pandemic is hitting Italy's economy hard. Business confidence in the eurozone's third largest economy in May plummeted to its lowest level since official statistics institute ISTAT started the index in March 2005. The figure is "alarming", said small business federation Confesercenti. "The health and economic emergency has swept businesses away, especially in shops, services and tourism," it said. Also read: 'Return to normal life' as Italy's Serie A resumes on June 20 Its members are particularly concerned "by the lack of liquidity necessary to pay costs and salaries... we are close to a point of no return and that's why the measures decided by the government (loan guarantees, SME subsidies) must be operational immediately," said federation head Patrizia De Luise. "We need to reduce bureaucracy and accelerate and simplify procedures, because if support is delayed again, many businesses will have no option but to stop," she said. Also read: Cannes 2020 to unveil lineup next week The government last week accused banks of not acting quickly enough, but they said that they had already passed on around 400,000 loan requests worth more than 18 billion euros ($20 billion) to the state-backed Central Guarantee Fund. A million jobs threatened Italy was the first European country to be hit by the pandemic and imposed a strict two-month lockdown which paralysed much of the country's economic activity. As a result, the country is set for a drop in GDP of between nine and 13 percent, the Bank of Italy said on Friday. Data also showed that the economy shrank 5.3 percent in the first quarter - worse than the 4.7 percent initially estimated. It had not seen such an "exceptional" decline in the first quarter since 1995, ISTAT said. This year's losses could amount to 170 billion euros, equivalent to the GDP of Veneto, Italy's third biggest industrial region, a Mediobanca study said. The head of the country's main business confederation Cofindustria, Carlo Bonomi, said that up to a million jobs could be threatened nationwide. "We're waiting for figures at the end of May but indications are that between 700,000 and a million jobs are in danger," he said. "Jobs are only created if there is growth, innovation, investment. The car manufacturing crisis can't be solved with subsidies or furloughing. You solve it by looking to the future, by investing in new technologies," he said. Italy is set to be the main beneficiary of a European Union 750-billion-euro recovery plan but it still may not be enough. No aid Italian citizens are slightly more optimistic, but far from celebrating. The pandemic has killed over 30,000 people. Consumer confidence went from 100.1 points in May to 94.3 in March, its lowest level since December 2013. While the state has paid for furloughs or handouts for those no longer able to work, many have slipped through the net. They include Eleonora Fogliacco, 35, a fitness and swimming teacher in Lombardy, the hardest hit region where gyms were ordered closed at the end of February. "I didn't qualify for the 600-euro monthly government handout because I earned more than 10,000 euros last year," she told AFP. "During the crisis I had peaceful days and days when I felt completely lost, without any state help. I could no longer see the future and I didn't know what to hold onto," she said. "I don't buy anything. I depend on my partner for the shopping," said Fogliacco. "This situation has changed everybody's way of life (and) everything will be very complicated" in the future, she added. According to a Confcommercio-Censis poll published on Tuesday, 53 percent of Italian families see their future negatively and 68 percent see the country's future negatively. Because of lockdown, 42 percent of families have had to reduce their work and income, 26 percent have stopped work and 24 percent have been furloughed.

Virus-battered Italy faces worst recession since WWII

Butterfly? Backstroke? Breaststroke? Whatever the style, swimmers were notching up their lengths at a social distance as pools reopened in Italy on Monday (May 25).

Swimming social-distance style as pools reopen in Italy

Twelve-year-old Alessandro, who is also an animal lover was followed by a giant bear while enjoying a picnic with his family on Italian hills. During the lockdown, Alessandro studied how to tackle a bear. The kid put his knowledge to use and remained calm.&nbsp;

The incident took place in Sudtirol, northeastern Italy. The drama was captured in the video and was later uploaded on Twitter.&nbsp;

In the video, it can be seen that the boy is walking on the hillside while being followed by the bear whose head kept popping out of the bushes.&nbsp;

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A voi il mio incontro con @‘orso di sta mattina sopra la malga Sporminore... <a href="https://t.co/VN6QmAV9oV">pic.twitter.com/VN6QmAV9oV</a>
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The youngster is seen maintain calm and he kept walking away from the bear keeping in mind that if he panics it could trigger the bear. &nbsp;

His uncle, Federico, told local newspaper La Stampa: "We had left home only a little while before. In the mountains, there were some other people but it was otherwise silent.

"Alessandro walked a few metres ahead of us to collect stuff and at one point we saw him coming out from the woods and being followed by the bear. We were terrified but he was calm."

Alessandro said: "It was important to leave quickly but without making the bear feel it was in danger.&nbsp;

"I did not look it in the eye and the bear understood I was not its enemy. And now I am the happiest child in the world."

Bear left the area and Alessandro and his family were unharmed.&nbsp;

Twelve-year-old Alessandro, who is also an animal lover was followed by a giant bear while enjoying a picnic with his family on Italian hills. During the lockdown, Alessandro studied how to tackle a bear.

Twelve-year-old Alessandro, who is also an animal lover was followed by a giant bear while enjoying a picnic with his family on Italian hills. During the lockdown, Alessandro studied how to tackle a bear. The kid put his knowledge to use and remained calm. The incident took place in Sudtirol, northeastern Italy. The drama was captured in the video and was later uploaded on Twitter. In the video, it can be seen that the boy is walking on the hillside while being followed by the bear whose head kept popping out of the bushes. A voi il mio incontro con @‘orso di sta mattina sopra la malga Sporminore... pic.twitter.com/VN6QmAV9oV — Loris Calliari (@loriscalliari) May 24, 2020 × The youngster is seen maintain calm and he kept walking away from the bear keeping in mind that if he panics it could trigger the bear. His uncle, Federico, told local newspaper La Stampa: "We had left home only a little while before. In the mountains, there were some other people but it was otherwise silent. "Alessandro walked a few metres ahead of us to collect stuff and at one point we saw him coming out from the woods and being followed by the bear. We were terrified but he was calm." Alessandro said: "It was important to leave quickly but without making the bear feel it was in danger. "I did not look it in the eye and the bear understood I was not its enemy. And now I am the happiest child in the world." Bear left the area and Alessandro and his family were unharmed.

Watch: 12-year-old boy confronts giant bear while taking stroll on Italian hills

The Venice Film Festival will go ahead as scheduled at the beginning of September, Luca Zaia, the governor of the region around the Italian city said on Sunday (May 24) as the spread of the new coronavirus in the country slows.

Venice Film Festival set for September , local governor says

The lagoon city of Venice welcomed back tourists on a sunny Sunday (May 24) after the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Italian tourists return to Venice

Italy's financial capital Milan seemed to take a breath of fresh air on Monday (May 18) as the country further eased some of the lockdown regulations.

Italy: Fashion stores in Milan open on Monday

Italy has recorded the lowest coronavirus death toll since early March. The country reported 99 deaths in the last 24-hours.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-47-million-death-toll-at-315244-299352">Global coronavirus cases surge to 4.7 million, death toll at 315,244</a>

The number of single-day deaths has been lowest since March 9 (on that day 97 deaths were recorded), the same day when Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced lockdown across the country.&nbsp;

At one point, Italy was the epicentre of the novel coronavirus and on March 27 nearly 969 deaths were recorded.&nbsp;

On Monday, most of the country's businesses have resumed with restaurants, bars, cafes, hairdressers, and retail stores reopened.&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.7 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;4,716,931 people worldwide and 315,244 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around &nbsp;1,734,631 people of that tally have recovered.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The US is the worst-hit country with nearly 90,000 deaths and over 1.4 million confirmed COVID-19 cases.US economy, the world's largest, has been thrown into a recession due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Italy has recorded the lowest coronavirus death toll since early March. The country reported 99 deaths in the last 24-hours. Also read: Global coronavirus cases surge to 4.

Italy has recorded the lowest coronavirus death toll since early March. The country reported 99 deaths in the last 24-hours. Also read: Global coronavirus cases surge to 4.7 million, death toll at 315,244 The number of single-day deaths has been lowest since March 9 (on that day 97 deaths were recorded), the same day when Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced lockdown across the country. At one point, Italy was the epicentre of the novel coronavirus and on March 27 nearly 969 deaths were recorded. On Monday, most of the country's businesses have resumed with restaurants, bars, cafes, hairdressers, and retail stores reopened. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 4.7 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 4,716,931 people worldwide and 315,244 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,734,631 people of that tally have recovered. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The US is the worst-hit country with nearly 90,000 deaths and over 1.4 million confirmed COVID-19 cases.US economy, the world's largest, has been thrown into a recession due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus: Italy records lowest death toll since March 9

Shops, restaurants and hair salons prepared to reopen in Italy on Monday as the government further eased one of the world's strictest coronavirus lockdowns, saying it was taking a "calculated risk" to put the country back on its feet.

The euro zone's third biggest economy is slowly emerging from more than two months of hibernation, with businesses allowed to gradually go back to work as long they can enforce tight sanitary protocols and keep people at least 1 metre apart.

At Milan's upscale Rinascente department store, guards will keep count through an app of how many people are in the store at any one time. Clothes tried on in changing rooms will be quarantined for 24 hours and shop assistants will spill perfumes on paper tissues rather than having customers handle testers. Access to restaurants will be strictly limited, with only family members allowed to sit close to each other.

Rinascente's Chief Executive Pierluigi Cocchini said it was difficult to predict what appetite there would be to shop after weeks of isolation. The store is reopening with markdowns of up to 60% as, like most retailers, it needs to clear unsold stocks.

"The hope is to take a step towards normality. It won't be business as usual given all the protocols, but this is the new normal for now and we have to accept it," he told Reuters.

Tourists, still absent, would normally generate a third of the store's sales.

Italy's fashion industry alone, boasting brands like Armani, Prada and Moncler, accounts for 5% of gross domestic product.

Business association Confcommercio expects consumer spending for clothing, which stood at 60 billion euros ($65 billion) in 2019, to shrink by 20% this year and a quarter of the country's 115,000 fashion retailers to go bust.

"I know that for several sectors of the economy, reopening does not mean recovery," Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said late on Saturday as he announced the lifting of the restrictions.

With its economy facing severe recession and public debt expected to spiral to more than 150% of its annual economic output, the government has been desperate to get the country back to work without triggering a second wave of the epidemic.

"We have to restart," said Rosy Riente, which runs the Cafe de l'Ange in the posh Alpine resort of Courmayeur, even though distancing rules mean that she can now sit a maximum of 35 people at any one time in her bar instead of 100.

"So far all we have done is spend money to buy sanitising gels and disinfectants," she said. 
Others prefer to wait until European borders reopen on June 3. Tourism contributes 13% to the country's economic output.

"My shop looks like a hospital, with plexiglass screens at the till, sanitisers, face masks and gloves," said Maurizio Di Rienzo, owner of suitcase shop Pellux in central Milan, whose eight employees have been furloughed.

"90% of my clients are tourists, most of them Chinese. It doesn't make sense for me to reopen just yet."

Shops, restaurants and hair salons prepared to reopen in Italy on Monday as the government further eased one of the world's strictest coronavirus lockdowns, saying it was taking a "calculated risk" to put the country back on its feet.

Shops, restaurants and hair salons prepared to reopen in Italy on Monday as the government further eased one of the world's strictest coronavirus lockdowns, saying it was taking a "calculated risk" to put the country back on its feet. The euro zone's third biggest economy is slowly emerging from more than two months of hibernation, with businesses allowed to gradually go back to work as long they can enforce tight sanitary protocols and keep people at least 1 metre apart. At Milan's upscale Rinascente department store, guards will keep count through an app of how many people are in the store at any one time. Clothes tried on in changing rooms will be quarantined for 24 hours and shop assistants will spill perfumes on paper tissues rather than having customers handle testers. Access to restaurants will be strictly limited, with only family members allowed to sit close to each other. Rinascente's Chief Executive Pierluigi Cocchini said it was difficult to predict what appetite there would be to shop after weeks of isolation. The store is reopening with markdowns of up to 60% as, like most retailers, it needs to clear unsold stocks. "The hope is to take a step towards normality. It won't be business as usual given all the protocols, but this is the new normal for now and we have to accept it," he told Reuters. Tourists, still absent, would normally generate a third of the store's sales. Italy's fashion industry alone, boasting brands like Armani, Prada and Moncler, accounts for 5% of gross domestic product. Business association Confcommercio expects consumer spending for clothing, which stood at 60 billion euros ($65 billion) in 2019, to shrink by 20% this year and a quarter of the country's 115,000 fashion retailers to go bust. "I know that for several sectors of the economy, reopening does not mean recovery," Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said late on Saturday as he announced the lifting of the restrictions. With its economy facing severe recession and public debt expected to spiral to more than 150% of its annual economic output, the government has been desperate to get the country back to work without triggering a second wave of the epidemic. "We have to restart," said Rosy Riente, which runs the Cafe de l'Ange in the posh Alpine resort of Courmayeur, even though distancing rules mean that she can now sit a maximum of 35 people at any one time in her bar instead of 100. "So far all we have done is spend money to buy sanitising gels and disinfectants," she said. Others prefer to wait until European borders reopen on June 3. Tourism contributes 13% to the country's economic output. "My shop looks like a hospital, with plexiglass screens at the till, sanitisers, face masks and gloves," said Maurizio Di Rienzo, owner of suitcase shop Pellux in central Milan, whose eight employees have been furloughed. "90% of my clients are tourists, most of them Chinese. It doesn't make sense for me to reopen just yet."

Italy to reopen shops, restaurants as lockdown eases further

As the world embraces a new post-pandemic reality, an Italian start-up has come up with a novel way to maintain social distancing

Italy develops gadget to help maintain social distance

Italy's luxury hotels sit empty for the first time in decades as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grip the country's tourism and hospitality industries.

Italy's luxury hotels vacant due to COVID-19 pandemic

Italy's government on Saturday said that it would allow travel to and from abroad from June 3 as the country tries to turn the clock back on after one of the world's most rigid coronavirus lockdowns.

COVID-19 pandemic: Major milestone on Italy's road to recovery

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte enforced a shutdown in early March to counter the Covid-19 pandemic, which has killed over 31,500 people in the country.

Italy hopes to reopen tourist destinations this summer

Italian director Luca Guadagnino will director a remake of the classic gangster film "Scarface", according to a report by trade publication Variety on Thursday (May 14).

Luca Guadagnino to direct 'Scarface' remake - reports

Italians have been turning to pawn shops to swap their prized family jewellery for some much needed cash, as Italians look for alternative ways to survive financially as the coronavirus outbreak leaves many without an income.

Pawn shops in Italy see 30% surge in customers

It doesn't get much more Italian than pizza - piping hot, cheese melting, straight out of the oven of the thousands of traditional pizzerias on streets all over the country. Pizzerias were finally able to open their doors again this week after almost two months in lockdown - and Italians were savouring every bite.

Stringy cheese, fresh out the oven - hoorah pizza is back

Helmets are a common sight in Rome, worn by the thousands of vespa riders whizzing around the ancient city. But now you’ll see them inside the main international airport too. Fiumicino is now the first in Europe to use ‘smart helmets’ to check the temperature of travellers.

Robocop-style helmets help Rome airport check passenger temperatures from a distance

Italy which is one of the worst affected coronavirus nation has claimed to have successfully developed the coronavirus vaccine to contain the deadly disease. Watch report.

Italy claims first COVID-19 vaccine: Vaccine works on humans

After two months of lockdown, Italy is slowly lifting the restrictions. 4.5 million people have been allowed to go back to work. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: 4.5 million people return to work in Italy

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-survivors-in-china-want-to-sue-their-government-report-296858" hreflang="en">Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report</a>

Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) isn’t surprised that a coronavirus case was reported in France in December. WHO says more cases of early origins may come to light.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-nations-decry-racism-in-china-296866" hreflang="en">African nations decry racism in China</a>

A French hospital retested old pneumonia cases. One sample from December 27 was found to be positive for coronavirus.

Australia and New Zealand have agreed on a trans-Tasman travel bubble. The aim is to boost the trade, travel and aviation sectors.

Talks between Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have begun.The move is still several weeks away

Nearly 200 stranded Pakistanis crossed the border from India. The Indian government opened the border crossing for the first time on Tuesday, it had earlier extended the visa of stranded Pakistanis amid the nationwide lockdown.

Only cyclists will be allowed on 50km of Paris's busiest roads and only pedestrians will be allowed on another 30 streets. The measures will come into effect when the lockdown is eased next week. The French government also unveiled a 20 million euro package to boost cycling in the post coronavirus era.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison says virus likely emerged in a Wuhan wet market. But he has not ruled out the possibility that the virus escaped from a lab. Morrison has called for an independent international probe.

&nbsp;Bars, fitness centres &amp; salons are set to reopen in Hong Kong from Friday. Dancing or live musical performances will not be allowed for now. Measures like temperature checks and social distancing will remain in place.

Leaders of Brazil’s indigenous people have appealed to the World Health Organisation. They have urged the who to set up and emergency fund and provide PPEs. Leaders claim Brazil’s 850,000 indigenous people have been ignored by the Bolsonaro government.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Italy. Ronaldo arrived in Turin in his private jet to rejoin his team Juventus. The Portuguese striker will have to complete a 14-day quarantine before he can resume training.

Tennis' World Number 2 Rafa Nadal believes the 2020 tennis season is virtually over. Nadal does not believe the tour will resume this year. Wimbledon has been cancelled, french open postponed, while doubts remain over the US Open.&nbsp;

Dozens of sheep paraded through the city of Atakum on Turkey’s northern Black Sea coast. Atakum is among 30 Turkish cities in a state of lockdown. Turkey has over 127,659 cases of coronavirus and 3,461 deaths.

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total. Also read: Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus.

The United Kingdom has now the highest death toll in Europe, deaths from Northern Ireland and Scotland have been added to UK's total. Also read: Coronavirus survivors in China want to sue their government: Report Over 32,000 people have died in the UK due to coronavirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) isn’t surprised that a coronavirus case was reported in France in December. WHO says more cases of early origins may come to light. Also read: African nations decry racism in China A French hospital retested old pneumonia cases. One sample from December 27 was found to be positive for coronavirus. Australia and New Zealand have agreed on a trans-Tasman travel bubble. The aim is to boost the trade, travel and aviation sectors. Talks between Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have begun.The move is still several weeks away Nearly 200 stranded Pakistanis crossed the border from India. The Indian government opened the border crossing for the first time on Tuesday, it had earlier extended the visa of stranded Pakistanis amid the nationwide lockdown. Only cyclists will be allowed on 50km of Paris's busiest roads and only pedestrians will be allowed on another 30 streets. The measures will come into effect when the lockdown is eased next week. The French government also unveiled a 20 million euro package to boost cycling in the post coronavirus era. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison says virus likely emerged in a Wuhan wet market. But he has not ruled out the possibility that the virus escaped from a lab. Morrison has called for an independent international probe. Bars, fitness centres & salons are set to reopen in Hong Kong from Friday. Dancing or live musical performances will not be allowed for now. Measures like temperature checks and social distancing will remain in place. Leaders of Brazil’s indigenous people have appealed to the World Health Organisation. They have urged the who to set up and emergency fund and provide PPEs. Leaders claim Brazil’s 850,000 indigenous people have been ignored by the Bolsonaro government. Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Italy. Ronaldo arrived in Turin in his private jet to rejoin his team Juventus. The Portuguese striker will have to complete a 14-day quarantine before he can resume training. Tennis' World Number 2 Rafa Nadal believes the 2020 tennis season is virtually over. Nadal does not believe the tour will resume this year. Wimbledon has been cancelled, french open postponed, while doubts remain over the US Open. Dozens of sheep paraded through the city of Atakum on Turkey’s northern Black Sea coast. Atakum is among 30 Turkish cities in a state of lockdown. Turkey has over 127,659 cases of coronavirus and 3,461 deaths.

From United Kingdom to Turkey, coronavirus across the globe!

The United Kingdom has surpassed Italy to report the highest official death toll from coronavirus in Europe, figures released on Tuesday showed, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Boris Johnson over his response to the crisis.

The United Kingdom has surpassed Italy to report the highest official death toll from coronavirus in Europe, figures released on Tuesday showed, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Boris Johnson over his response to the crisis. Weekly figures from Britain's Office for National Statistics (ONS) added more than 7,000 deaths in England and Wales, raising the total for the United Kingdom to 32,313 as of late April, according to news agency Reuters. Only the United States has suffered more deaths than Britain, according to the data so far. "The UK has been hit very hard in this wave of COVID-19 and each death will (have) brought sadness to families," said Professor James Naismith of Oxford University, who is director of the Rosalind Franklin Institute of medical research. Opposition politicians said the figures proved the government was too slow to provide enough protective equipment to hospitals and introduce mass testing. "I'd be amazed, if when we look back, we don't think: yep we could have done something differently there," the government's chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, said in response to lawmakers' questions on testing. (With inputs from Reuters)

UK surpasses Italy with Europe's highest official coronavirus death toll

With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies.

Italy to re-open with restrictions on May 4

Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown on Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations.

Last day of COVID-19 lockdwon in Italy | World News

Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation.

Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-sees-over-1-million-visitors-on-may-day-296366">Also read:&nbsp;Shanghai sees over 1 million visitors on May Day</a>

"I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre.

In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home.

None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-millionaire-to-take-a-legal-action-against-the-government-for-crippling-economy-296358">Also read:&nbsp;UK millionaire to take a legal action against the government for crippling economy</a>

Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week.

Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea.

"We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP.

'Extremely worried'

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed.

The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included?

The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&amp;A that specified people could see extended relatives -- including, for example, the children of their cousins -- but friends, however dear, were out of bounds.

Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all".

The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy.

But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives.

"I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli.

Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust.

"We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said.

"It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown."

Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation.

Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. Also read: Shanghai sees over 1 million visitors on May Day "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Also read: UK millionaire to take a legal action against the government for crippling economy Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. 'Extremely worried' Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included? The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives -- including, for example, the children of their cousins -- but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all". The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown."

Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown

Number of European countries are preparing to ease their lockdown measures as they are seeing a flattening of the curve of COVID-19 infections. Watch this video to know more.

Italy and France records one of the lowest COVID-19 cases

As Italy gears up to ease lockdown measures amid a steady decline in the coronavirus figures, the country's emergency response commissioner Domenico Arcuri urged people to not lower their guards and continue taking preventive measures.

"On Monday, Phase Two begins. We have to be aware that it will be the start of an even bigger challenge," emergency response commissioner Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-signs-of-coronavirus-spread-slowing-european-nations-prepare-easing-restrictions-296381">Amid signs of coronavirus spread slowing, European nations prepare easing restrictions</a>

"We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," he said, urging citizens to "not lower your guards."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-in-europe-top-15-million-report-296285">Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report</a>

Italy will ease the two-month nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus that has killed 28,710 people in the country, second highest after the United States.

Under the new relaxations, Italians would be allowed to stroll in parks and meet relatives. Restaurants can offer takeaway services and wholesale stores can reopen.&nbsp;

However, the country's death toll jumped by the highest number since April 21 on Saturday with 474 new deaths.

But, the higher number could also be because of the previous uncounted fatalities that are now added.&nbsp;

Also, the trends two days before the easing of lockdown suggest&nbsp;a continual reduction in the number of infections and deaths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As Italy gears up to ease lockdown measures amid a steady decline in the coronavirus figures, the country's emergency response commissioner Domenico Arcuri urged people to not lower their guards and continue taking preventive measures.

As Italy gears up to ease lockdown measures amid a steady decline in the coronavirus figures, the country's emergency response commissioner Domenico Arcuri urged people to not lower their guards and continue taking preventive measures. "On Monday, Phase Two begins. We have to be aware that it will be the start of an even bigger challenge," emergency response commissioner Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference. Also read | Amid signs of coronavirus spread slowing, European nations prepare easing restrictions "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," he said, urging citizens to "not lower your guards." Also read | Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report Italy will ease the two-month nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus that has killed 28,710 people in the country, second highest after the United States. Under the new relaxations, Italians would be allowed to stroll in parks and meet relatives. Restaurants can offer takeaway services and wholesale stores can reopen. However, the country's death toll jumped by the highest number since April 21 on Saturday with 474 new deaths. But, the higher number could also be because of the previous uncounted fatalities that are now added. Also, the trends two days before the easing of lockdown suggest a continual reduction in the number of infections and deaths.

'It's up to you': Italians get key message as two-month lockdown enters final day

After weeks of lockdown put in place to contain the spread of coronavirus, many countries in Europe started preparing to lift restrictions after a consistent drop in the number of cases and fatalities.&nbsp;

Italy, which has witnessed most deaths from coronavirus after the United States, will ease lockdown restrictions from Monday, where people would be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Takeaway services would be allowed in restaurants.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sees-1435-new-coronavirus-deaths-total-toll-over-66000-296326">US sees 1,435 new coronavirus deaths; total toll over 66,000</a>

Germany will continue to provide the relaxations at the start of the week, with schools in some places likely to reopen and France has said it will partially ease lockdown measures on May 11.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-in-europe-top-15-million-report-296285">Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report</a>

In Hungary, some stores and museums, restaurants and hotels, beaches and baths can reopen from Monday, but restrictions will continue in the capital Budapest, which has reported nearly 70 per&nbsp;cent of the country's total cases.

In Spain, which has also been badly affected by the virus and witnessed one of the harshest lockdowns in the continent, there was joy and relief as the government allowed people to exercise and walk freely after seven weeks.&nbsp;

Over 242,000 people have lost their lives in coronavirus and with 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, half of humanity is under some form of lockdown. &nbsp;

However, since many health experts still warn of another wave of the virus, measures of social distancing, the use of masks, and more testing are encouraged in these European countries.&nbsp;

After weeks of lockdown put in place to contain the spread of coronavirus, many countries in Europe started preparing to lift restrictions after a consistent drop in the number of cases and fatalities.

After weeks of lockdown put in place to contain the spread of coronavirus, many countries in Europe started preparing to lift restrictions after a consistent drop in the number of cases and fatalities. Italy, which has witnessed most deaths from coronavirus after the United States, will ease lockdown restrictions from Monday, where people would be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Takeaway services would be allowed in restaurants. Also read | US sees 1,435 new coronavirus deaths; total toll over 66,000 Germany will continue to provide the relaxations at the start of the week, with schools in some places likely to reopen and France has said it will partially ease lockdown measures on May 11. Also read | Coronavirus cases in Europe top 1.5 million: Report In Hungary, some stores and museums, restaurants and hotels, beaches and baths can reopen from Monday, but restrictions will continue in the capital Budapest, which has reported nearly 70 per cent of the country's total cases. In Spain, which has also been badly affected by the virus and witnessed one of the harshest lockdowns in the continent, there was joy and relief as the government allowed people to exercise and walk freely after seven weeks. Over 242,000 people have lost their lives in coronavirus and with 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, half of humanity is under some form of lockdown. However, since many health experts still warn of another wave of the virus, measures of social distancing, the use of masks, and more testing are encouraged in these European countries.

Amid signs of coronavirus spread slowing, European nations prepare easing restrictions

The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe's worst-hit country Italy.

"Sadly of those tested positive for coronavirus... 28,131 have now died," housing minister Robert Jenrick told reporters at a Downing Street briefing. "That's an increase of 621 fatalities since yesterday."

Italy reported a death toll of 28,236 on May 1. The United Kingdom's previous death toll was 27,510 as of April 30 at 1600.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe's worst-hit country Italy.

The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe's worst-hit country Italy. "Sadly of those tested positive for coronavirus... 28,131 have now died," housing minister Robert Jenrick told reporters at a Downing Street briefing. "That's an increase of 621 fatalities since yesterday." Italy reported a death toll of 28,236 on May 1. The United Kingdom's previous death toll was 27,510 as of April 30 at 1600. (With inputs from agencies)

UK government says virus death toll up by 621 to 28,131

Fashion house Prada &lt;1913.HK&gt; said on Thursday it had restarted production at several sites across Italy after almost two months of strict lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus. 
 
The company said it reopened its industrial sites in Tuscany on April 20 and those in the central regions of Umbria, Marche and the northern region of Veneto - one of the hardest-hit areas - after that. 
 
It added some workshops in its Milan headquarters were also back at work. 
 
The group said it was implementing a full-range of security measures for staff, including antibody and viral tests. 
Other luxury groups, including Kering`s Gucci, Ferragamo and Valentino, have partially reopened activities in Italy since April 20, with more businesses in the country due to restart from May 4. 
 
Prada said the safety measures at its sites also included reduced working hours or staggered shifts, as well as temperature testing and the supply of protective kits. 
 
From April 28, the company is carrying out antibody testing for all employees who have returned to work and those testing positive will also receive a viral test. Both tests are done on site. 
 
"The company`s entire workforce will receive serological testing on a monthly basis, with no end date currently set for the screening programme," it said in a statement. 
 
The company, which is paying for all tests conducted on its staff, will also extend the screening process to the family members of any employee testing positive, it said.

Fashion house Prada <1913.HK> said on Thursday it had restarted production at several sites across Italy after almost two months of strict lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Fashion house Prada <1913.HK> said on Thursday it had restarted production at several sites across Italy after almost two months of strict lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The company said it reopened its industrial sites in Tuscany on April 20 and those in the central regions of Umbria, Marche and the northern region of Veneto - one of the hardest-hit areas - after that. It added some workshops in its Milan headquarters were also back at work. The group said it was implementing a full-range of security measures for staff, including antibody and viral tests. Other luxury groups, including Kering`s Gucci, Ferragamo and Valentino, have partially reopened activities in Italy since April 20, with more businesses in the country due to restart from May 4. Prada said the safety measures at its sites also included reduced working hours or staggered shifts, as well as temperature testing and the supply of protective kits. From April 28, the company is carrying out antibody testing for all employees who have returned to work and those testing positive will also receive a viral test. Both tests are done on site. "The company`s entire workforce will receive serological testing on a monthly basis, with no end date currently set for the screening programme," it said in a statement. The company, which is paying for all tests conducted on its staff, will also extend the screening process to the family members of any employee testing positive, it said.

Prada gradually restarts production in Italy, to test employees

The lemon demand is rising in Italy amid the coronavirus pandemic and the Amalfi farmers are adapting to the virus. However, Italy is losing farming due to low farming fees. Watch report.

Lemon demand rises during COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy | Amalfi Farmers

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