Italian PM Tests Positive for COVID-19, Skips Africa Energy Trip

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi tested positive for COVID-19 and cancelled his trip to Africa this week, his office said on Monday.

Draghi's office said he had no symptoms, noting that the Italian ministers will replace him on the trip.

The prime minister was due to visit the Congo Republic and Angola on 20-21 April to sign new energy supply deals to cut his country's reliance on Russian gas.

The delegation will be headed by Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio and Ecology Transition Minister Roberto Cingolani, the statement read.

Earlier this month, Italy officially ended the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency, marking more than two years of lockdown.

Officials stated that the country can gradually phase out the remaining COVID measures between April 1 and Dec. 31, 2022.

Nonetheless, the remaining measures will apply nationwide, regardless of the local or regional epidemiological situation. The pass will still be required for patrons inside cafeterias and restaurants.