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France to offer free Covid-19 tests to tourists this summer

18/05/2021

France to offer free Covid-19 tests to tourists this summer

While many European countries insist upon travelers presenting a negative Covid-19 test before they enter, France is looking to greet tourists more openly this summer, providing foreigners with the option to have a free PCR test when they arrive in the country.


Speaking during an interview with Europe 1 news on Sunday, Secretary of State for European Affairs, Clement Beaune, said France is currently the only European country providing the option of free PCR tests to its citizens. He added that this facility will now be extended to foreign tourists arriving for vacation.


Beaune said the move was designed to boost tourism in France and help the country economically.


“We need, we want, in good sanitary conditions, to remain the leading European and world tourist destination,” he told BFMTV, another news channel.


Covid-19 PCR tests currently cost anywhere from €50-€300 in Spain, UK, Germany, and Sweden. However, the European Parliament has called for countries to provide such tests for free, or at least make them more affordable.


Beaune added that the planned digital health pass, which will include travelers’ vaccination details, is being eyed as a “tool for reopening” tourism.


[Related reading: France is first EU member state to start testing digital COVID-19 travel certificate]


*Image courtesy of mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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