Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan Details New Changes Effective May 4

Deputy Prime Minister and State of Emergency Coordinator Tigran Avinyan writes:

“Dear compatriots, starting May 4, new changes will take place regarding the restrictions imposed during the state of emergency. Specifically:

• In terms of mobility rights:
   * The restrictions on free movement are lifted; thus, there will no longer be a need for a movement sheet,*
   *The ban on public transport remains in effect,*
   *Interregional border restrictions have already been lifted; this approach is maintained,*
   *Instead, depending on the risks of virus spread or hotspots, the entry and exit of certain communities may be temporarily closed.

• Regarding economic restrictions, in addition to the already permitted activities, the following are allowed:
   * All processing industries, including textiles, furniture, footwear, printing, etc.,*
   *Completion of construction works,*
   *Wholesale and retail trade, but only in specialized and non-specialized shops and kiosks. Malls, shopping centers, and markets will remain closed, allowing only points of sale for food and agricultural products, as well as pharmacies.*

• In terms of public catering, the operations of restaurants, bars, cafes, and inns will be conducted exclusively in open areas,*
  *The information and communication sector will operate fully,*
  *Activities in botanical and zoological gardens, nature reserves, and protected areas will resume,*
  *Sports clubs and facilities will operate exclusively for professional athletes during sports events and training.*

• For personal services, services such as laundry, cleaning, dry cleaning, hairdressing, beauty salons, and body care services will be allowed.*

Simultaneously, mandatory regulations for organizing activities in all permitted sectors will apply, and failure to comply will lead to legal repercussions. Moreover, supervision over adherence to these rules will be strengthened.

For more details, please visit: https://www.gov.am/files/docs/4038.pdf

Dear compatriots, the easing of restrictions does not mean that the danger of the pandemic has passed. This is an attempt to adapt to the new coexistence rules. Therefore, at this stage, it is extremely important for each of us to exercise individual, social, and corporate responsibility. This is a unique test for all of us to see how well we can demonstrate high awareness and discipline.

I would like to emphasize that if the situation worsens, a return to more stringent restrictions may occur at any time. Wishing health and vigilance to us all.”