Spain reopens border, lifts coronavirus state of emergency

Spain has opened its border to all European countries except Portugal and lifted coronavirus state of emergency. Portugal’s border is set to reopen on 1st of July.

Many passengers arrived Madrid’s International Adolfo Suarez-Barajas Airport with their suitcases wearing face masks, and many French people crossed the border to the northern city of Irun to buy cheap tobacco and bargain alcohol.

Disclosing this on Monday June 22, 2020, Arancha Gonzalez Laya, Foreign Minister, stated that the border was opened in order to boost its tourism industry that accounts for 12 percent of the country’s economy.

Laya said that British tourists would be allowed into the country without having to be quarantined. They however would have to undergo 14-day isolation upon their return.

“We will allow British visitors to enter Spain just like the rest of the European Union or Schengen area from 21 June freely and without the need for the quarantine,” Láyà stated.

Now with the border reopened and the state of emergency ended in the country, Spanish citizens can now move freely from one region to the other. They can visit friends and relatives although would have to wear masks when they are in public.

As part of measures put in place any passengers who arrive in Spain would have their temperature checked. They would also provide information about places they have come from and how they could be contacted in Spain if need does arise.

Also, people at the airport waiting to receive passengers would have to observe social distancing rules.

Most people feel really happy for what looks like activities are going back to normal in the country as they are able to visit their loved ones.

A passenger Alberto Bos, traveling to Milan said he had not seen his wife in four months because they lived far apart from each other.

“My situation is a little complicated because my wife lives in Italy and I live in Spain so we haven’t seen each other for four months,” he said.

While speaking about the reopening of border one shop owner, Luis Mancho said that it is a good thing for the economy.

“Today it’s all getting a bit back to normal. It’s good for the shops, for the economy, for everything,” said Luis.

In an interview with ABC news on Sunday, Reyes Maroto, Tourism Minister said that Spain is a safe destination to be and that it is ready to welcome tourists.

“We have to build trust. Translate to travellers, Spaniards and foreigners, that the country is a safe destination,” Maroto said.