(CNN) – A plane of Japanese business passengers landed in Vietnam June 25, marking the first flight between the two countries since they imposed border restrictions in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
But the two countries are now easing their restrictions, allowing the smallest flight organized by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam from Tokyo’s Narita Airport to northern Vietnam on Thursday.
About 150 passengers had their temperature checked before the flight, were tested for coronavirus upon arrival and will be quarantined for two weeks at the hotel. On Friday and Saturday, two other rental tickets are planned, which will transport a total of 440 people Japan in Vietnam
Approximately 130 passengers work at the Japanese factory of the electronic company Sharp Corporation, the company said. “I am more relieved than satisfied. We will now have the necessary human resources to restart the business,” said Vietnamese company president Wada Kazuhito. per in the Japanese NHK media.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry is the first step towards opening the borders between the two countries earlier this month acts to relax travel rules in Vietnam.
But for now, tourists are not included in the plans.
Both Japan and Vietnam seem to have led to the emergence of their own problems. Japan reported more than 18,000 cases and 971 deaths, while Vietnam reported only 352 cases – and no deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Travel bubbles
Japan and Vietnam are the latest to slowly begin to reopen borders as countries around the world balance the need to preserve their citizens – and boost their economies.
One idea that is being discussed in many regions is the so-called travel bubbles – that is, the reopening of borders, but only to residents of selected countries.
Others are still working out the details of how to open the borders.
The leaders of New Zealand and Australia have pledged to establish a road corridor, although no firm plans have been announced.
On June 21, Fijian Prime Minister Josiah “Frank” Voreqe Bainimarama said the country was working on its own bubble – which he called the “Bull Bubble” – between Fiji, New Zealand and Australia.
Bula is a greeting that in Fiji means hello or welcome.
CNN’s Lilit Marcus contributed to this article.
