REPORTAGE
When he saw the barriers lifted at the old Franco-Belgian border post at Menen on Monday morning, Jonathan, manager of a tobacco shop, gave a big "phew" of relief. French purchases represent 90% of its turnover. "77 days without almost having a penny ... We are very happy that the borders have reopened!", He exclaims at the microphone of Europe 1. After two months of isolation, the countries of the European Union are back Monday with free movement.
>> LIVE - Coronavirus: follow the evolution of the situation on Monday June 15
"We need the French to live"
As of Monday morning, many cross-border workers made the trip. "We need the French to live, and they are happy to come to Belgium because it's cheaper," says Jonathan. Martine, a French border crosser, fills her bag with tobacco jars and cartons of cigarettes. "60 euros a cartridge here, 90 euros in France ... It makes the difference!" This resident of the Lille region was eager to find her little habits. "We only come once a month, but they recognized us without problem!", She smiles.
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"It didn't work like it used to"
For those who, like Jonathan, rely on purchases from the French, this June 15 is like a deliverance. Cindy, who runs a bistro near the border, was also afraid to put the key under the door. "It didn't work as it did before ... We were even afraid at the start that it wouldn't work anymore, but it's okay, it's going again! Hoping that it will continue ...", she confides. One thing is certain, French consumers have never been more welcome on the other side of the border.