France Orders Closure of Restaurants, Cafes, and Theaters

Prime Minister Philippe: "French Love for Cafes, Now Is the Time to Pause"
Only Essential Facilities Like Grocery Stores, Gas Stations, and Newspapers Allowed to Operate

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] As the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) rapidly spreads, the French government has ordered all restaurants, cafes, theaters, and clubs nationwide to suspend operations. This is a de facto shutdown of all businesses except those essential to daily life.

On the 13th, Disneyland near Paris, France, is bustling with visitors.
[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

According to CNN, on the evening of the 14th (local time), French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced in a TV address that this measure is being implemented as part of social distancing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Prime Minister Philippe stated, "From midnight, all businesses except those essential to daily life will be closed." All businesses except essential industries are subject to this. It is a sudden measure announced just before the midnight enforcement.

He emphasized, "Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, banks, and newspaper companies can remain open," adding, "Religious facilities will also remain open, but religious events must be postponed."

Philippe stressed, "Many people visit cafes and restaurants in France. Under normal circumstances, this would make me happy, but now is not the time. For the next few weeks, such behavior must be avoided."

France currently ranks fourth in Europe for the number of COVID-19 confirmed cases, following Italy, Spain, and Germany. According to Johns Hopkins University, there are 3,672 confirmed cases in France. The death toll is 79, the third highest after Italy and Spain. The rapid spread is causing deep concern for the government.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.