Italy are taking a huge step forward in their Covid-19 relief, by reopening their domestic and international borders in a bid to boost tourism.

However the country's neighbours believe the move is premature.

It had been nearly three months prior to reopening that the country had been in lockdown.

European correspondent Joe McKenna told Mike Hosking there are nerves attached to the border openings.

"People here are bracing themselves because even though Italians know that it's essential to get this tourism industry moving again like yours downunder, really there is a lot of nervousness allowing Europeans and particularly British tourists to come in with no quarantine."

Ms McKenna says places are open which gives tourists plenty to do.

"The Colosseum's reopened, the Vatican museums have reopened, the Uffizi museum in Florence has reopened this week, so things are really starting to move. It still feels quiet even though the cafes and the restaurants are starting to open again."

Meanwhile, Pope Francis has spoken out in regards to the death of George Floyd in the United States.

In rare Pope-fashion, he said we cannot turn a blind eye to racism, condemning violence as any answer to a trying situation.

"This is also a message I think from Pope Francis to President Trump, because they clashed in the past around the border wall, they stand at opposite ends of the political spectrum, and I think that's his way of sending a message to the President that whatever's going on is unacceptable," Ms McKenna said.