German institute lauds Vietnam’s prompt actions in tackling COVID-19

Berlin (VNA) - German political institute Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) has posted an article praising Vietnam’s efforts in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the key to success lays in the prompt action and resolve of the Government, relevant agencies, and the Vietnamese people.

Peter Girke, Chief Representative of KAS in Vietnam, said the rate of COVID-19 infection in the country has remained quite low since the first local case was confirmed in late January.

He noted that the number of COVID-19 cases in Vietnam and Germany on February 17 was the same, at 16. Four weeks later, however, it was 61 in Vietnam and 7,272 in Germany. As of March 30, Vietnam had only 194 cases, while Germany had 66,885.

The National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control has also taken actions since the early stages of the crisis, he said, adding that the Vietnamese people have been aware of the battle since early February.

Vietnam closed its schools within the first few days, initially in major cities and then nationwide. Universities were shuttered soon after, and events of all types were suspended or cancelled.

He commended other measures taken by Vietnam in combating COVID-19, such as tightening border control, mobilising the army, suspending visa waivers for tourists from many European countries, quarantining passengers entering Vietnam for 14 days, restricting gatherings of more than 10 people, and closing restaurants and entertainment venues.

Vietnam has yet to impose a widespread curfew, Girke noted.

He also highlighted the degree of public support for the Government’s measures and the effective communications seen throughout the country.

He suggested Vietnam continue with measures introduced, saying they will help the country contain the epidemic until specific treatment drugs and vaccines are produced./.