ATHENS — Developments on the pandemic front, the progress of the vaccination programmes of the EU member-states and the European Digital Certificate for vaccination were on the agenda of the European Union Health Ministers Council that took place in Luxembourg.

Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias pointed out that it has been proved that the pandemic can only be dealt with effectively through coordinated and joint efforts.

"The efforts made were impressive, but when we did not have a coordinated approach, there were problems due to fragmentation and divergences. Only with a common framework can the management of the pandemic be successful," he said.

Regarding the European Digital Certificate, Kikilias reiterated that it was a proposal made by the Greek prime minister with the aim of facilitating travel. However, he clarified, "it will not be used as a privilege for the vaccinated or as a punishment, but as a measure to protect public health."