ATHENS, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis outlined on Tuesday the government's plan for gradual transition to normalcy after the lifting on May 4 of the nationwide lockdown imposed on March 23.

During a televised address to the nation, he congratulated Greek people for the successful collective response to the challenge of the novel coronavirus so far.

"We implemented unprecedented measures to curb its spread. You showed unprecedented responsibility and solidarity," he said.

He urged citizens to continue with the same attitude in coming weeks, and "stay safe" which is the new slogan as of May 4 after the motto "We stay home."

"We are coming back, but we remain cautious. Above all we remain safe. It is up to us to make it," the PM said.

In the second phase of the challenge, Greece is better prepared to trace and treat new cases, while gradually returning to normalcy, he noted.

Starting from May 4, people will be allowed to leave their homes without having to justify their movements by sending mobile text messages to authorities or carrying on a document. They need to remain however within the prefecture of their main residence.

Hairstyling shops, bookstores, athletic gear and electronics shops will open with restrictions on number of people inside at any time. Customers and employees should be wearing masks in closed spaces. The same rule will apply for entering supermarkets and mass transport services.

On May 11, more retail shops will open and on June 1, restaurants, cafeterias, shopping malls and a few hotels under restrictions will follow.

Also on May 11, high school students who are in their last year will be the first to return to schools. A week later students from the rest of high school and middle school grades will follow, while primary schools and kindergartens may open on June 1 depending on developments, Mitsotakis said.

Churches will also gradually welcome worshippers under rules in May.

The PM noted that sports events and culture festivals will most likely not be held this summer, but as of May 4, people will be allowed to go to non-organized beaches in addition to open air spaces for personal exercise.

In the post-lockdown period following scientists' advice, the government suggests people keep avoiding gatherings of more than 10 and unnecessary commute with mass transport services, and continue working from home or in shifts, if possible. Enditem

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