The consignment consisted of 20 tonnes of flour, six of dhal and four of sugar. It was transported on a vessel provided by the Sri Lankan Port Authorities and flying the ICRC flag.

In its role as a neutral intermediary and as an independent humanitarian organization, the ICRC has repeatedly facilitated the movement of humanitarian aid and of wounded and sick persons between areas held by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and government-controlled territory. The ICRC stands ready to provide further support as needed.