Canadian PM to remain in self-isolation for two weeks

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will remain in self-isolation for two weeks after his wife Sophie Grégoire Trudeau tested positive for COVID-19.

"Upon my doctor's recommendation, I will remain in self-isolation for 14 days. I want to be clear. I have no symptoms. I am feeling good," Trudeau said in a press briefing on Friday.

The Prime Minister's announcement comes as Canada suspended parliament sittings until April 20 in efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Mark Strahl, Conservative Party parliamentary whip said parties had agreed to impose the suspension as the country battles to contain the spread of the virus.

Trudeau, however, affirmed that the move does not limit the government's efforts to cushion Canadians from the effects of COVID-19.

"The agreement we reached with other parties to suspend the House today also still gives us the flexibility to do the things we need to do in order to support Canadians," Trudeau said.

"We will help Canadians financially. The government of Canada will be introducing a significant fiscal stimulus package in the days ahead."

Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the COVID-19 death toll had surpassed 5,000 globally. The virus has reached 123 countries, with more than 132,000 cases confirmed.

Trudeau is expected to participate in a G7 extraordinary Leaders Summit by videoconference on Monday to discuss the COVID-19 outbreak.

According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the G7 leaders will "coordinate research efforts on a vaccine and treatments, and work on an economic and financial response."

(CGTN)