Egypt eases restrictions despite surge in virus infections Egypt has lifted many restrictions put in place against the coronavirus pandemic, despite a continued upward trend in new infectionsCAIRO -- Egypt on Saturday lifted many restrictions put in place against the coronavirus pandemic, reopening cafes, clubs, gyms and theaters after more than three months of closure, despite a continued upward trend in new infections. President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's government has been keen to save the Egyptian economy that was hit hard by the virus outbreak. Before the pandemic, Egypt had just emerged from a three-year economic reform program that came with securing a $12 billion IMF loan in late 2016. The national carrier, EgyptAir, said it would resume its non-stop flights to more than 29 international destinations starting July 1. The government fears a prolonged lockdown could be devastating economically, as the grounded international flights and empty hotels have taken a heavy toll.

Source: ABC News June 27, 2020 07:41 UTC