BEIRUT: The Beirut Rafik Hariri International Airport will match the standards of developed countries in terms of airport security, Interior Minister Mohammad Fahmi said during a news conference held at the airport Friday.

“Everything will be ready in either July or August,” he said during the conference held along with Public Works and Transportation Minister Michel Najjar, after they toured the Beirut airport.

“We will continue to work on expanding the airport and on increasing its intake capacity,” Najjar said, adding that he hopes tourism makes a comeback in Lebanon.

Najjar also said that a new wing for visitors and pilgrims will be added if the ministry is able to get $18 million advances.

The public works minister added that all services at the airport will be upgraded.

Najjar said that no person infected by the coronavirus has entered Lebanon through the Beirut airport,

“There is no need to panic," he added.

Najjar said that the Health Ministry, together with the airport administration has done what is necessary to monitor all arrivals to Lebanon through incoming planes.

He added that the Lebanese Red Cross and the Civil Defense are completely ready to take the necessary measures, in the event that a traveler with coronavirus arrives at the airport.