Andina

Peru President: If we do not stop coronavirus, there will be huge losses of human life

15:18 | Lima, Mar. 16.

The President of the Republic Martin Vizcarra on Monday afternoon affirmed that if citizens do not stop the coronavirus (COVID-19), there will be much pain and human losses.


In this sense, the Head of State said the state of national emergency decreed by the Government is harsh, but necessary to avoid assuming a higher cost later.

"We ask for the understanding, the collaboration of all Peruvians; reverting this situation in the next 15 days depends on us; let's assume responsibly what corresponds to us," he told reporters.

For this reason, the top official requested citizens to make the social distancing effective, because COVID-19 is a contagious virus that moves with the people. "If we prevent them from moving, we will stop the virus for which 15 days of isolation were decreed," he remarked.

The statesman stressed that the countries —which responsibly assumed their tasks against the coronavirus— have been successful, unlike those that now regret the significant amounts of human and economic losses.

"We want these measures to give way to normality in 15 days. Thus, we can remain on the path of progress and development that Peru is on," he stated.

Joint purchases with South American countries


One of the agreements, he said, was to join efforts and maintain close coordination among Health Ministries to share information and successful actions, in order to better prevent the virus from spreading across the region.

In addition, joint purchases of medical equipment and materials will be made in order to reduce costs and delivery times.


Remarks were made during a press conference held at the Government Palace in Lima. The President was joined by the Council of Ministers on the occasion.

(END) FHG/MVB

Published: 3/16/2020