Novalić: No reason for panic, measures taken to protect citizens and economy

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The FBiH Government declared a state of disaster in the Federation at today's thematic session. According to current regulations in BiH, a state of emergency cannot be declared.

The session was attended by the prime ministers of all cantons, representatives of healthcare institutions, and relevant services.

Read the decision on declaring a state of disaster and its content HERE.

“I convened today’s session so that we can all together make decisions that will ease the burden on healthcare workers, the economy, and others. We were presented with available data. Four infected in FBiH, 20 in RS, and 2,000 people under surveillance,” said the Prime Minister of FBiH, Fadil Novalić, at a press conference.

He reminded that there is no state of emergency in FBiH, and a state of disaster is an adequate category. However, Novalić notes that the payment of pensions and veteran benefits is not in question.

“A decision was made by which the Government prescribes the retention of prices for certain products from March 5. We have launched an initiative to the Council of Ministers and the BiH Parliament to amend Article 10 of the Law on Public Procurement to enable faster public procurement of medical equipment and protective gear. Recommendations have been given to mitigate the consequences. The Banking Agency must adopt acts to keep the banking sector in balance. The Government will take steps at the next session on Thursday regarding the formation of a guarantee fund to ensure the liquidity of the economy, decide on tax relief, and initiate activities at the state level that involve access to international institutions,” added Novalić.

Among the recommendations, says the Prime Minister of FBiH, is that one parent of a child under 10 years of age be allowed to take time off work.

“The Government calls on all public companies to undertake all activities that will help in the early detection of the virus. The Government has made financial and other resources available. It welcomes the decision of BH Telecom to enable a better system for online learning. I ask citizens to respect the recommendations and not fall for fake remedies. I am in constant contact with the Council of Ministers and the Government of RS; only together can we react in the interest of the citizens. There is no reason for panic, but each of us must be responsible,” said Novalić.