PA Gradually Restarts Economic Activities

Arab World

April 21st, 9:03am

Ramallah- Asharq Al-Awsat

Palestinian police officers stand guard outside the Church of the Nativity that was closed as a preventive measure against the coronavirus, in Bethlehem in the Israeli-occupied West Bank March 6, 2020. REUTERS/Mussa Qawasma

The Palestinian Authority followed in the footsteps of major countries that allowed a gradual resumption of economic activity, 45 days after the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the Palestinian territories. Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh announced steps to ease lockdown restrictions, adding that progressive measures would be taken “to balance between health and economy.” In a news conference late on Monday, he said: “Just as we took timely steps to protect our people from the virus, we will continue to take strict medical and preventive measures, while restarting some businesses and economic facilities.” He explained that institutions, which employ less than three workers, including agriculture, food, construction, vehicle repair, and individual occupations, are allowed to operate from 10 am to 5 pm, while clothing, shoes and accessories stores, in addition to telecom and Internet shops in specific governorates are allowed to open on Fridays and Saturdays. Grocery stores and supermarkets should close on Fridays. Shtayyeh noted that construction sites could run regularly, while taxis operate with one passenger per trip or two passengers from the same family. Pharmaceutical and food factories are allowed to work under the approved safety conditions, with 50 percent of the workforce. The Palestinian premier decided to keep mosques, churches, gathering places, and mourning houses closed, and prohibited celebrations, weddings, reception festivals, and collective Iftar in Ramadan. He also affirmed that nurseries, schools, universities, and institutes remain closed, adding that official high school exams would be held on May 30. The Authority allowed the reopening of the financial market, provided that banks operate in some governorates at a rate of 60 percent, and in others in the emergency mode. Before announcing the new measures, Shtayyeh received a green light from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who asked the government to ease the restrictions in some areas, especially ahead of the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

from Asharq AL-awsat https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2244781/pa-gradually-restarts-economic-activities