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New Zealand calls off Christchurch attack commemoration amid coronavirus fears
CHIRSTCHURCH (Reuters) - New Zealand on Saturday called off a national remembrance service marking the one-year anniversary of the attack on Christchurch mosques due to concerns over the coronavirus outbreak.
The event, to be held in Christchurch on Sunday, was expected to attract a large crowd, with many traveling from around New Zealand and from overseas.
“This is a pragmatic decision. We’re very saddened to cancel, but in remembering such a terrible tragedy, we shouldn’t create the risk of further harm being done,” New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement.
New Zealand confirmed its sixth case of COVID-19 on Saturday.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-newzealand-shooting-anniversary/new-zealand-calls-off-christchurch-attack-commemoration-amid-coronavirus-fears-idUSKBN21100L