Andina

Peru President: Together we will overcome the coronavirus

16:43 | Lima, Mar. 20.

President Martin Vizcarra on Friday affirmed that fighting coronavirus (COVID-19) requires the efforts and commitment of all citizens, as he stressed that the pandemic will be defeated by all in Peru.

On behalf of all Peruvians, the Head of State thanked all those who are fighting COVID-19 on the frontline: doctors, nurses, and health personnel in general.

Likewise, top official praised the efforts undertaken by members of the National Peruvian Police and Armed Forces deployed throughout the national territory for the verification and enforcement of the mandatory social immobilization order.

"Without their unselfish support, we would not be able to take such difficult and complex measures forward (...). We want to combat it, and all of us will beat this virus," he expressed.

To do this, the statesman said it is necessary to defeat two enemies additional to COVID-19: panic and disinformation.

Mr. Vizcarra said there may be natural fear of something new, but panic and lack of control are actions that must be prevented now.

"We are taking all the measures, allocating a budget of more than S/2.5 billion (over US$701 million), acting with conviction, making decisions at the moment and evaluating processes; we correct the deficiencies. You have a government and a country determined to confront (coronavirus), and we are going to overcome it," he added.

Regarding the disinformation spread on social media, the leader called for responsibility and to pay attention to official, real, and verified information provided by the Executive Branch on a daily basis.

The President also insisted on the need for Peruvians to abide by the compulsory social isolation, in order to take care of themselves and their own families.

"This disease is showing that individualism does not lead us to anything; we need to be in solidarity; let's think about our relatives and the others. This way, we will be successful," he concluded.


On this occasion, the President was joined by members of the Council of Ministers. The event was held at the Government Palace in Lima.


(END) VVS/CVC/MVB

Published: 3/20/2020