adminThe KP plenary session was held last month.
In a statement, the WDC said the agreements approved and adopted by the KP on Marange, as well as on other important issues, including measures on reform, exhibited beyond doubt that the Kimberley Process was effective, resilient and viable.
“This is a real milestone, and demonstrates categorically that the Kimberley Process provides the framework through which the integrity of the rough diamond chain of distribution can be protected, while at the same time enabling producing countries to benefit from their natural resources,” said Eli Izhakoff, President of the WDC.
For its part, Zimbabwe has committed to uphold the KPCS minimum requirements and will report to the current KP Plenary and the KP Intersessional Meeting in 2012 on issues related to identification of further investors, the regulation of artisanal mining, the fight against illicit digging and smuggling.
“Credit also is due to Zimbabwe, the African nations led by South Africa, the United States, and a host of individuals and delegates who put in long hours in negotiating the arrangement, which has escaped us for more than two years. It has been a long time in coming, and I fervently hope that it allows us to move both the KP and the industry forward,” Izhakoff said.
The WDC said it was pleased with the developments.
“The diamond industry is pleased with the continuing progress of the KP and we welcome the decision of the United States and South Africa to work together to provide leadership for the next two years, with the United States serving as KP Chair in 2012 and South Africa as Vice Chair, and South Africa becoming KP Chair in 2013,” Izhakoff said.
“The WDC is particularly pleased that Plenary endorsed the need for professional administrative support to improve and further develop the structures and processes of the KP.”
It said the agreement on Marange continue to hold Zimbabwe responsible for technical KPCS, monitored by a KP team.
“The Kimberley Process further proved its intent to enforce its requirements by declaring that unless Venezuela submits its annual reports and other statistical data by 20 December, it will be removed from the KP,” he said.
The WDC said the KP has demonstrated that, in spite of a difficult two years, it was capable of transcending serious challenges and fulfilling its mandate to break the link between conflict and the diamond supply chain.
“The Joint Statement of the incoming Chair USA and Vice Chair South Africa underlines the strength of unity and common purpose.
“Their combined commitment to implement reforms, improve governance and more effective enforcement is in line with goals promoted by the WDC for several years,” said Izhakoff.
Online Reporter