Museums and libraries will reopen in Armenia as the government is gradually easing the Covid-19 restrictions imposed in March, Deputy Prime Minster, Commandant Tigran Avinyan told the parliament on Wednesday, presenting the decision to extend the state of emergency for another month unanimously approved by the government earlier in the day.

The guidelines on the activity of museums and libraries will be made public in the next few days, he said.

Restaurant singers and musicians will be allowed to perform at open-door events, the commandant added.

“The requirement to wear face masks in private cars will be lifted, but wearing masks will remain mandatory in public transport and taxies. In some public places, including forests, nature settings, the rule of wearing masks will be removed,” Avinyan noted.

According to the decision, the ban on protests and other assemblies will be lifted, but they must be organized in strict compliance with all coronavirus safety rules, including wearing face masks and practicing social distancing.

The ban on the entry of foreigners into Armenia will also be lifted, but they will be required to self-isolate. People will be allowed to hold family occasions and other entertainment events featuring up to 40 participants.

Avinyan reiterated that schools, primary and secondary vocational education institutions, music and art schools are set to reopen in Armenia on 15 September, adding the decision on universities will be announced next week.

As for the opportunity for Armenians to visit other countries, the commandant said it depends on regulations in specific countries.

He once again called for strict compliance with all sanitary and hygiene rules to return to normal as soon as possible.