2021-01-01 10:35:09 GMT2021-01-01 18:35:09(Beijing Time) Xinhua English
CAIRO, Jan. 1 (Xinhua) Mina Atta, a 43-year-old Egyptian, had plans to celebrate the New Year in the country s renowned Sharm el-Sheikh resort on the Red Sea. However, he will celebrate at home after the government s decision to cancel all New Year s celebrations nationwide to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly ordered on Dec. 27, 2020 the cancellation of all New Year celebrations, urging authorities to strictly enforce the mask mandate that applies to all public transportation and indoor public spaces.
Madbouly ordered an on-spot fine of 50 Egyptian pounds (3.18 U.S. dollars) for all violators who do not apply the precautionary measures and do not wear face masks starting Jan. 3, 2021.