Vaccination Key to International Border Reopening
Thierry Santa has encouraged New Caledonians to come forward for vaccination against COVID-19. The aim is to inoculate another 120,000 residents by the end of the year, to reach the target of 180,000.
This was the key to the economic recovery, “so that we can consider at the end of the year, thanks to the collective immunity, to reopen the borders completely.” Mr Santa said.
The health and economic cost of the coronavirus has cost New Caledonia around 700 million Pacific francs per month, provided by assistance from France. It is due to expire at the end 31 October 2021.
Government spokesperson Christopher Gygès added, “There is a need to reopen New Caledonia for the economy but also to provide parts essential to certain industries”.
A decision around international borders has not yet been made, with the border closure in place until the end of October.
By Dominic McCarthy
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