Covid 19 emergency – Albania closes its ports to Italy
After extension of the ‘red zone’ throughout Italy, due to the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Albanian government has ordered immediate suspension of all sea links between Italy and Albania.
COVID 19 EMERGENCY – THE ALBANIAN GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS SEA LINKS WITH ITALY
Following passing by the Italian Government, on 9 March 2020, of the Decree of the Council of Ministers extending to the entire country the urgent containment measures (so-called ‘red zone’) put in place to stop the spread of the COVID-2019 virus, the Albanian Government has ordered the immediate suspension of sea links between Italy and Albania for the foreseeable future.
The measure adopted by the Albanian government is part of a series of restrictive government measures aimed at halting the spread of the Coronavirus in the country and bans all passenger traffic on the ferry lines between Italy and Albania, with immediate effect. Cargo vessels will still be allowed to travel, so drivers with accompanying commercial vehicles will be able to travel in both directions, without limitations.
Adria Ferries has decided to continue operating its vessels on the route between Ancona and Bari and the port of Durrës, in order to guarantee commercial traffic to and from Albania. In view of the rapid spread of the epidemic and the concern it always has for the health and well-being of its customers, the company will be adopting all measures serving to limit the spread of the Coronavirus.
The Albanian Government has also introduced strict controls at the ports for both drivers and crew members.
