Merkel on the Decline of COVID-19 Spread: "A Glimmer of Light at the End of the Tunnel"

German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her happiness regarding the decline in the spread of COVID-19 in the country. Participants in a virtual consultation session of the Christian Democratic Union reported to the German press agency (dpa) that Merkel stated on Tuesday: "There is a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel." Merkel noted the decrease in infection numbers as well as a slight decline in the severity of the situation within intensive care units. At the same time, Merkel emphasized that the more cautious people are, the faster everyone will be able to benefit from relief measures. The German cabinet has approved a decree allowing for the easing of COVID-19 restrictions starting from the beginning of next week for those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and for those who have recovered from the disease. Thus, the German government has paved the way for a swift decision on this decree in the parliament on Thursday and in the Federal Council on Friday.