Germany starts repatriation campaign for citizens abroad amid coronavirus

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Tuesday that the country has launched repatriation efforts for thousands of Germans stuck abroad due to travel restrictions amid coronavirus outbreaks.

"We will do everything we can to enable the thousands of German travelers stranded abroad to return to Germany in the next few days. To this end, we agreed yesterday with commercial flight providers to launch a unique program," said Maas on his Twitter account.

The minister also warned against all unnecessary tourist trips.

"Hence the urgent request: stay at home. You are helping yourself and others! This travel warning for tourist trips applies worldwide," Maas tweeted.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Germany has climbed to over 6,000 on Monday. Its government has introduced a package of strict measures to reduce social contacts.