China eases strict COVID protocols in Shenzhen, Beijing
COVID-19 testing booths were removed from some Beijing streets and travel restrictions in the southern city of Shenzhen were lifted on Saturday as China further eased its draconian virus protocols.
Despite rising infection rates, cities are relaxing strict COVID quarantine rules amid mounting public frustration and protests that have swept the country in recent weeks.
Test booths in the capital Beijing were closed as grocery stores lifted the mandate to show negative test results for entry. Subways are expected to follow suit on Monday, although bureaus still require employees to show negative tests to enter.
Three years after COVID first emerged in the central part of the country, Chinese authorities have maintained their zero-tolerance approach to the virus until recently. The government has said strict lockdowns are essential to prevent the spread of COVID and overwhelm the healthcare system.
Chinese cities are easing strict COVID quarantines amid mounting public frustration.
Demonstrators in Berlin are protesting in front of the Chinese embassy in solidarity with demonstrators in China.
COVID-19 testing booths in Beijing have been removed.
A participant holds a banner reading “Freedom in China” as demonstrators protest in front of the Chinese embassy in Berlin.
A fire that killed 10 people in the western city of Urumqi last month sparked protests in 20 cities across the country. Authorities arrested dozens of protesters, and some protesters said officers monitored their phones and social media to prevent them from organizing.
with mail wires
https://nypost.com/2022/12/03/china-easing-severe-covid-protocols-in-shenzhen-beijing/ China eases strict COVID protocols in Shenzhen, Beijing
