[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Amid the strong resurgence of COVID-19 in Europe, the French Prime Minister has tested positive for COVID-19. The Belgian Prime Minister, who met with him, has entered self-quarantine.
On the 22nd (local time), according to major foreign media, the French Prime Minister's office announced in a statement that "Prime Minister Jean Castex has tested positive for COVID-19 and will perform his duties in isolation for 10 days."
Vaccinated Castex visited Brussels, Belgium, just before his positive diagnosis, where he discussed cooperation measures on data sharing and ways to eradicate illegal immigration with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
After returning home, he took a COVID test upon learning that his daughter had tested positive for COVID-19.
The French Prime Minister's office did not comment on any symptoms Castex might be experiencing, AP News reported.
Following Castex's positive diagnosis, many Belgian officials who met with him have also entered self-quarantine.
AFP reported that Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and four ministers entered self-quarantine after undergoing COVID tests.
Castex's positive diagnosis comes amid the ongoing spread of COVID-19 in Europe, with countries including France tightening restrictions.
French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that due to the country's strict vaccine pass regulations, there is no need to strengthen restrictions, but the rollout of vaccine booster shots is being expedited.
On the 19th, French health authorities expanded the eligibility for booster shots to those aged 40 and above.
Currently, 30% of those aged 65 and older in France have received booster shots. From December 1, those aged 50 and above will be able to apply for booster shots.
Many European countries relaxed quarantine measures significantly in September and October as vaccination rates increased and cases declined, but with the recent surge in new cases, some have reimposed lockdowns, putting the region on alert.
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