The world is following Italy's lead in handling the coronavirus epidemic, European Union economy commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said on Wednesday, adding that he was "proud" of this fact.
"All countries, albeit gradually, have aligned themselves with Italy's health decisions and as an Italian I am proud of this," Gentiloni told public broadcaster Rai 3's news bulletin.
Italy, the country worst affected outside China by the coronavirus was last week put under a under a strict nationwide lockdown and the government approved a 25 billion euro aid package to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on families and businesses.
France and Spain have begun Italy-style lockdowns in recent days and European Union leaders have agreed to close the bloc's external borders for 30 days.
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