Food establishments will not incur serious economic damage, Avanesyan

This is not an extraordinary measure; many countries use the vaccination proof while accessing transport and food venues. This was stated today, November 30, by the Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan during a conversation with journalists in the National Assembly, referring to the initiative to allow citizens to enter public food establishments only with a negative PCR test result or a vaccination certificate starting from January 1.

She noted that there are technical mechanisms in place to control citizens' access to cafes or restaurants in accordance with regulations, and that the inspection bodies and the police have long been carrying out monitoring functions.

“For example, in Paris, our citizens verify their vaccination status through an application when using cafes in the same manner. Yes, COVID has unfortunately created pressures on both health and economic systems. The measures we are implementing are aimed at ensuring that the situation related to COVID remains manageable, so we do not incur human and economic losses. Indeed, our efforts are directed at saving our citizens' lives and health, as well as the economy, through suppression mechanisms,” she said, adding that the requirement to wear masks remains relevant.

The Minister was also asked to respond to the statement made by the “Association of Restaurants,” which calls on the government and the Ministry of Health to refrain from initiatives that restrict citizens' access to restaurants.

“What should I respond to that? The Ministry will do everything possible within its powers to protect the health and lives of citizens,” Avanesyan said.

She also mentioned that the restrictions will be implemented starting from January 1 to ensure a high number of vaccinated individuals. “The daily vaccination figures already indicate that enough citizens have been vaccinated so that there will not be serious economic damages to public food establishments; on the contrary,” Avanesyan added.