ATHENS — The opening of the market is planned from December 1, initially with retail stores and restaurants, Alternate Development Minister Nikos Papathanasis said on Monday in an interview with SKAI TV, noting, however, that alternative plans are being considered.

Papathanasis explained that the situation seems to be stabilising and this means that there will be a serious reduction in the spread of the virus.

Answering questions, he said that there are other scenarios on the table while he stressed that no one has said that the market will open without strict measures or before December 1.

"The scientific proposal of the epidemiological committee was for three weeks, we will be implementing it for three weeks. We are listening to the scientific knowledge," he said, and added: "It is too early, we will monitor the situation."

Papathanasis explained that the plan will be based on the experience gained in spring.