The Kimberley Process plenary took place in Dubai from 11 to 15 November. The Central African Republic was reinstated as a full member at the meeting.
Furthermore, the World Diamond Council president called on the broader industry to contribute to the redefinition of ‘conflict diamonds’.
Ahmed Bin Sulayem, chair of the Kimberley Process, has criticised the European Union’s plan to install a single ‘node’ for diamond supply in Antwerp, where certification would occur.
“We cannot overlook one pressing issue impacting both our industry and particularly, the KP itself: Europe’s persistent push for a single diamond control node outside the KP framework, located in Antwerp,” Bin Sulayem said.
“Let me rephrase that: This self-serving approach raises financial burdens and disproportionately impacts African diamond-producing countries.”
In his closing speech, he quoted an Indian politician, saying, “Europe has to grow out of the mindset that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems.”
Right of reply
A statement released by the European Union said that the organisation has failed to make substantial progress for a third consecutive year, harming consumer confidence in the diamond industry.
“The EU also deplores the unfounded allegations made at the plenary by the Kimberley Process chair in the context of the ban on Russian diamonds,” the statement reads.
“His unfounded personal remarks not only betray the neutral and facilitating role expected of the chair, but also stand in contrast with the decades-long spirit of the Kimberley Process.”
“The EU, as a founding member of the Kimberley Process will continue working constructively towards its meaningful reform. The Kimberley Process must fulfil its role as an effective tool for conflict prevention, good governance, transparency in natural resources management and for breaking the link between rough diamonds and conflict.”
The Kimberley Process plenary in Zimbabwe in 2023 ended in a deadlock due to disagreement over a proposal to broaden the definition of conflict diamonds.
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