AKIPRESS.COM - German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced plans to slowly ease restrictions brought in to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, BBC reports. 

Social distancing rules will stay in place until at least 3 May, with Ms Merkel also recommending the use of face masks in shops and on public transport.

But as of next week shops under a certain size could open their doors.

And schools will gradually start to reopen from 4 May.

Ms Merkel said the country had achieved "fragile intermediate success" through the strict measures.

The chancellor said the country "must keep focused and keep going", adding that they "do not have a lot of room for manoeuvre".

Large public gatherings including religious services will remain banned until 31 August. Bars, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and music venues will all remain closed.

Ms Merkel's announcement makes Germany the latest European nation to start easing restrictions:

• Denmark has reopened schools and nurseries for children up to the age of 11

• Construction and manufacturing work is back under way in Spain

• Thousands of smaller shops in Austria reopened on Tuesday, and the country will allow outdoor sport such as tennis, golf and athletics from 1 May

• Some regions in Italy have reopened bookshops and children's clothing stores

France, however, has extended its lockdown measures for four more weeks until 11 May. Belgium will maintain its restrictions until at least 3 May.