EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the situation with regard to the coronavirus as serious. The situation is “very serious now”, von der Leyen said today, but: “It is still” up to “contain the spread”. The states are now to be supported with 100 million euros in the procurement of rapid tests.
For von der Leyen there are currently “two enemies”: the coronavirus itself and an “increasing tiredness” to follow the precautionary measures. She is “impressed” by what people put up with, they pay a “high price – socially and economically”.
“Better prepared” than in March
After all, she said, one is “better prepared” now than in spring. She announced a package to improve coordination between EU members – in data exchange, testing, medical equipment, travel issues and vaccination strategies. “No member state will survive the crisis well unless they all survive,” said von der Leyen.
Regarding a possible vaccination, she said that “no compromises” would be made on the safety of a vaccine. However, “comprehensive and fair” access to these vaccines was also important.
EU heads of state and government will also meet in the coming days to discuss the crisis. At previous meetings there was already a commitment to more coordination among the states.
“Christmas of solidarity”?
The Commission President put EU citizens in the mood for unusual Christmas days: “I think that Christmas this year will be a different Christmas.
The doctor and microbiologist Peter Piot, who advises von der Leyen in the fight against the coronavirus, said that this year might be the occasion for a “Christmas of solidarity”. It is still too early to assess the situation. It depends on each individual. If the measures that have now been introduced are successful, perhaps we can relax a little, Piot said. However, he warned: “But if we relax too much, there might be a third wave.
hp, Source: orf.at. Picture: stockilyapp.com
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