PR-15

In keeping with the India-Sri Lanka Joint Statement of 26 October, 2008, wherein it was agreed that India would send a consignment of humanitarian relief assistance for civilians affected by the conflict in the North of Sri Lanka, a ship carrying 1680 tons of relief materials arrived at Colombo Port from Chennai on Saturday, 15 November, 2008. The consignment, which is contained in almost 100 containers, has been unloaded at the Port. Officials of the High Commission of India are currently working with the Customs and Port authorities for clearing and moving the relief items.

The High Commission of India hopes to be able to transfer the shipment to the warehouse of the International Committee of the Red Cross by the middle of this week, following which it will be formally handed over to the ICRC Delegation for onward transport and distribution to the affected populations.

The High Commission of India wishes to place on record its appreciation for the Government of Sri Lanka for facilitating the arrival of the consignment and to the ICRC for its assistance in its storage, onward transportation and distribution.

Colombo