'No Mask' Water Play with Handshakes, Hugs, and Photo Ops... Controversy Surrounding Brazil President's 'Neglect of Quarantine Measures'

Criticism from the International Community Continues

President Bolsonaro (the person wearing white at the top right) is enjoying playing in the water at the beach on the 1st (local time). [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] The behavior of Jair Bolsonaro, President of Brazil, who ignores the seriousness of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), continues into the new year, sparking controversy.

According to Brazilian media on the 4th (local time), President Bolsonaro enjoyed water activities with numerous vacationers at Praia Grande beach in S?o Paulo state on January 1st, while on vacation.

Most vacationers, including President Bolsonaro and those appearing to be his supporters, were not wearing masks and did not observe social distancing, crowding closely together.

President Bolsonaro hugged and took commemorative photos with people regardless of whether they were children or elderly.

The next day, President Bolsonaro posted on social media criticizing local governments that had closed beaches during the year-end and New Year holidays.

In response, Jo?o Doria, Governor of S?o Paulo, pointed out, "The president's actions threaten the lives of the people. The Bolsonaro administration's denial of reality is fueling the increase in COVID-19 deaths."

The international community also criticized President Bolsonaro's disregard for COVID-19 prevention measures.

Paolo Gentiloni, European Union (EU) Commissioner for Economy, strongly criticized Brazil's COVID-19 response in a post on social media on the 2nd.

Gentiloni, former Prime Minister of Italy, said, "During the year-end and New Year holidays, Brazil's daily average COVID-19 cases and deaths exceeded 36,000 and 700 respectively," adding, "I have seen a shameful image of Brazil."

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