Singapore and Germany agree to set up Reciprocal Green Lane for business and official travel

Singapore and Germany agreed that the Reciprocal Green Lane could serve as a model for future similar arrangements between Singapore and other European countries. PHOTOS: ST FILE, AFP

SINGAPORE - Singapore and Germany have agreed on a reciprocal green lane for essential travel, the two countries announced on Friday (Oct 23).

The arrangement will enable essential travel for business or official purposes via direct flights between them, Singapore's Foreign Affairs Ministry and the German Federal Foreign Office said in a joint statement.

They added that operational details of the green lane, including the procedural requirements, health protocols and application process, will be announced at a later date.

Separately, Germany also said on Friday that Singapore residents can enter Germany again for short-term stays, without having to undergo quarantine on arrival. They can start doing so from Tuesday (Oct 27).

The move follows the European Council's recommendation this week that member countries of the European Union gradually lift entry restrictions on Singapore residents.

The German Ambassador to Singapore Norbert Riedel, whose country currently holds the Presidency of the European Union, said: "Every step forward to make travel possible again is much appreciated in these difficult times. The decision to lift travel restrictions reflects among others the current assessment of the epidemiological situation and containment measures in Singapore."

At present, Singapore has no green lane arrangements with countries in Europe.

Singapore, however, has in place travel arrangements with 10 other countries and territories, including Malaysia, China, Japan and Australia, with varied restrictions.

With most other countries hit by the pandemic, Singapore requires their travellers to serve a 14-day quarantine at dedicated government facilities and take swab tests before their quarantine ends.

Germany on Friday reported 11,242 new Covid-19 infections, bringing its national tally to 403,291 cases. Singapore has 57,951 Covid-19 cases, with 28 deaths.

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