RIGA, May 5 (Xinhua) -- The Lithuanian government on Wednesday approved the so-called "opportunity passports" to people who have attained immunity to COVID-19 either by recovering from the illness or getting vaccinated, and those who have tested negative for COVID-19.
The holders of the "opportunity passports" will be exempt from certain COVID-19 restrictions, such as being allowed to dine inside restaurants and attend larger public events and performances.
"The 'opportunity passports' are specifically meant for people that have been vaccinated and those who have recovered after falling ill with the virus," Health Minister Arunas Dulkys said as he presented the proposal to the government.
"This is also our political decision - to make them available to those who have taken the test within the past 24 hours and up to 16-year-old children," the minister said.
Restaurants, cafes, bars, gambling halls and betting shops will be able to serve the holders of the "opportunity passports" indoors, although nightclubs will still remain shut.
Up to 500 holders of the "opportunity passports" will be allowed to gather for indoor or outdoor events on condition that they do not exceed 75 percent of the venue's capacity.
Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte said on Wednesday that thanks to vaccination Lithuania will ease some COVID-19 restrictions. But restrictions on gatherings will most probably remain in place throughout summer as the rate of infections is still high. Enditem
