(Fighting against New Coronary Pneumonia) South African President: Lowering the level of the "blockade order" of the epidemic by the end of May to promote economic recovery   

  China News Agency, Johannesburg, May 13 (Reporter Wang Xi) South African President Ramaphosa delivered a national television speech on the evening of the 13th. He announced that in addition to some high-risk areas, most of South Africa will orderly reduce the "blockade order" for the new coronary pneumonia epidemic from the current level 4 to level 3 by the end of May, aiming to further relax Restrictions to revive the economy.

  Ramaphosa pointed out that the gradual relaxation of the embargo ban was aimed at gradually restoring current economic activities and ensuring public health as much as possible. "This decision does not mean that the consciousness is relaxed, nor can it be achieved overnight. The whole process must be cautious to prevent the surge of confirmed cases of new coronary pneumonia."

  According to the South African government's "blockade order" requirement, after the "blockade order" is reduced to three levels, the South African government will further relax restrictions on retail and e-commerce, and the restrictions on people going out for physical exercise will be further relaxed.

  But Ramaphosa admits that with the gradual decrease in the level of the blockade of the epidemic, the increase in confirmed cases of new coronary pneumonia cannot be avoided. Therefore, South Africans must wear masks and maintain a safe social distance when they go out. "Hugging, shaking hands, and kissing are already a thing of the past."

  As of press time, there were 12,074 confirmed cases of new coronary pneumonia in South Africa and 219 deaths.

  Ramaphosa said that a nationwide "blockade order" starting from March 27 is necessary. If this measure is not taken, about 80,000 people will be infected in South Africa, and the number of deaths will be 8 times the current. The system will also be overwhelmed.

  Ramaphosa also quoted South Africa ’s late former President Mandela ’s quote on fighting AIDS: “We must go beyond our differences and work together to save the people. If we do n’t, history will try us severely.” (End)