Msharrafiyeh Promises Aid for Needy Citizens 'within Days'

Social Affairs and Tourism Minister Ramzi Msharrafiyeh on Sunday announced that aid will be distributed “within a few days” to “needy citizens” affected by the coronavirus lockdown.

In a tweet, Msharrafiyeh said the government will mete out the aid in collaboration with the relevant ministries, the army and the municipalities.

“I reiterate my call for solidarity and cooperation among us all in order to overcome this difficult period,” he added.

Lebanon has so far confirmed 248 coronavirus cases among them four deaths.

The government on Saturday called in the army and security forces to ensure people stay at home to slow the spread of the virus.

Last Sunday, the government ordered all people to stay at home and all non-essential businesses to close. The airport has been shut since Wednesday.

Educational institutions, sport clubs, nightclubs, pubs, restaurants and cafes had been ordered closed prior to the government’s drastic emergency measures.