NICOSIA (Reuters) - Cyprus on Wednesday announced a phased-in easing from May 4 of a broad lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus which had brought the island to a standstill since mid-March.

Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said the construction industry, related sectors and retail businesses with the exceptions of malls and large stores would reoperate. A curfew for night movement would remain in force, he said.

The island has reported 843 cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths.

(Reporting By Michele Kambas)

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