LOC19:22
16:22 GMT
PARIS, June 4 (KUNA) -- France has decided to cancel its regular Bastille Day military parade this year because of the coronavirus crisis, the French Presidency announced on Thursday.
The parade, held on National Day on July 14, usually celebrates the French revolution and it includes thousands of military personnel and vehicles and often has international participants as guests.
But coronavirus conditions and health recommendations have caused the parade's cancellation.
However, it will be replaced on July 14 by a much smaller ceremony to honour France's front-line health workers who have been fighting round-the-clock to save lives during the epidemic.
At least 29,201 people have died in France due to coronavirus and there have been over 151,000 virus infections reported in hospitals, according to revised figures.
The virus continues to circulate but at a much slower rate, Health Authorities say.
France is currently in Phase II of easing its strict lockdown put in place in mid-March. Phase III, with further easing, is expected on June 22, if health conditions permit. (end)
jk.mb