"The government is ready to counter coronavirus...scanners have been installed at the country’s airports. Isolation wards have also been set up at different hospitals for the treatment of coronavirus patient if anyone is detected," he said.
The minister was talking to reporters at an event arranged by Bangladesh Development Forum at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the city.
He said preventive measures have been taken across the country to fight coronavirus. "Steps have been taken from the capital to district hospitals. Our aim is to provide coronavirus patients speedy treatment if anyone is detected," he said.
Zahid Maleque also mentioned special steps taken for Chinese nationals working in Bangladesh as well as travellers from the Asian giant.
"Special precautions are being taken for travellers from China...these passengers are being scanned at airports on arrival. At the same time, they’re filling forms so that they can be traced later," he said.
The minister said they have kept eyes on the projects where Chinese nationals are working. "As many of the Chinese citizens went to their country in the new year, they’ll come back to Bangladesh. So, we’re keeping eyes on those returning from abroad," he said.
The minister assured that there is nothing to be worried over the issue.
"We pray that the virus doesn't enter our country. But if that happens for any reason, there’s nothing to get panicked. Because, the government has taken full preparations to deal with the virus," he said.