Egypt’s President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said he is not in favor of suspending all businesses in the country due to the coronavirus (COVDID-19), Invest-Gate reports.

This came in a televised speech on April 7 during an inspection tour of the Armed Forces’ personnel and equipment assigned to help the country in confronting the virus.

He added that it is possible for government institutions to work with only 50% of their workforce or less, excluding seniors and women.

El-Sisi highlighted the state’s readiness to distribute medical masks at half-price or for free if needed.

“We do not want to take tougher actions that could put more restrictions on people’s movement, but we should be obliged to take all measures,” he noted.

He also stressed that the country’s wheat reserves are sufficient, adding that “Egypt is ready to make expensive deals if necessary.”

The President also asked the private sector not to touch their workers’ salaries or lay them off due to the current situation.