Rio - The head of the Sri Lanka counsulate office in Rio de Janeiro, Sohaku Bastos, reports that he needs help from airlines to ship some 60 tons of food and clothing that have been donated by Brazilians who want to help tsunami victims.

"The big problem is transportation. We are talking about a long trip, from Brazil to Sri Lanka. Therefore, we are negotiating with airlines in Brazil," said Bastos, adding that he hoped to have the donations on their way by this weekend.

Bastos said he hoped the donations would continue because this time of year is the monsoon season in Sri Lanka, which means that there will be heavy rainfall, perhaps hampering efforts to assist those in need. "The people of Sri Lanka need potable water, non-perishable food, clothing, blankets and medicine," explained Bastos.

Yesterday, the Brazilian government sent another shipment of aid to Sri Lanka (28 tons of water, 2.5 tons of provisions and clothing, and 27 tons of medicine donated by the Ministry of Health). The cargo was shipped on a Varig aircraft.

Translation: Allen Bennett