President Macron: "No Nationwide Lockdown Even if COVID-19 Spreads"

French President Emmanuel Macron (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Jiwon] French President Emmanuel Macron stated that even if the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) spreads further, he will not impose a nationwide lockdown.

In an interview with the weekly magazine Paris Match on the 20th (local time), President Macron said, "We cannot stop the country again," adding, "A nationwide lockdown causes considerable collateral damage."

Earlier, when COVID-19 began to spread significantly in March, France imposed a lockdown banning movement except for essential reasons and prohibited the operation of shops and restaurants nationwide, which lasted until June.

Recently, France's situation has worsened again, with 2,000 to 3,000 new confirmed cases daily. The previous day's daily new confirmed cases were 3,776, the highest in three months.

As a result, there have been speculations that the French government might issue another nationwide lockdown.

However, instead of a lockdown that severely impacts the overall economy, the government is expected to selectively implement restrictions such as business closures or stay-at-home orders.

President Macron explained, "If necessary, targeted lockdowns could be imposed again."

As of this date, France's cumulative confirmed COVID-19 cases stand at 225,043, with 30,468 deaths.

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