Nov 19, Colombo: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is holding discussions with both the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE rebels to find suitable arrangements for a crossing point in northern Sri Lanka.

Paul Castella, the ICRC's head of delegation in Sri Lanka said finding an arrangement for movement between government and LTTE-controlled territory is essential for the safe passage of civilians, ambulances and food convoys, and for the return of bodies of fallen fighters

“All arrangements concerning crossing-point procedures, including location and opening hours, must be agreed to by both the government and the LTTE,” Mr. Castella said.

The Omanthai entry/exit point was temporarily closed since yesterday stranding the movement of civilians and aid supplies to the displaced in Wanni as the ICRC was not able to obtain a security guarantee from both parties to the conflict.

"Until a clear arrangement is found, the ICRC will continue to approach both parties to the conflict on a case-by-case basis to facilitate the movement of ambulances and the transfer of dead bodies of security-force and LTTE fighters,” Mr. Castella added.