Lebanon agrees to conduct free PCR tests for Sri Lankans seeking to be repatriated
June 06, 2020The Lebanese government in line with Sri Lanka's policy on repatriating Sri Lankans living overseas, has agreed to conduct free PCR tests for Sri Lankans seeking to be repatriated.
Ambassador Shani Calyaneratne Karunaratne had discussions this matter with the Lebanese Labour minister Lamia Yammine at the Labour Ministry premises on June 1.
Further, the matters under discussion included the COVID-19 outbreak and the Sri Lankan migrant workers, the economic crisis in Lebanon, the non-availability of work for undocumented workers, unpaid salaries and health issues of migrant workers.
According to the Labour Ministry, the PCR test was to be done for the Sri Lankan migrant workers for a nominal fee of US $ 20/- instead of US $ 100/- per person if they were returning.
However, in the announcement of Cabinet decisions, Lebanonese government informed that the PCR test will be done free of charge, as requested by the Embassy.
The Lebanese decision saves a sizeable amount of funds to the Sri Lankan government.
