WFDB asks KP to release Zimbabwe report

by eyetee | September 21, 2009 12:00 am

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The World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) is calling on the Kimberley Process (KP) to release its report and recommendations on Zimbabwe following a visit last month by a team to a diamond field under military control.

“We have been following the situation in Zimbabwe with considerable concern and we discussed the situation in the country at length,” said WFDB president Avi Paz on behalf of the executive committee. “We fully support the efforts of the Kimberley Process to arrive at a situation that first and foremost defends the safety and well-being of Zimbabwe citizens living in those areas where diamonds are located, and at the same time abides by the principle their long-term economic and social welfare will be best served by the proper and ethical use of Zimbabwe’s diamond resources.”

The announcement comes following a meeting of the WFDB executive committee held at the London Diamond Bourse earlier this month.

The situation in Zimbabwe has come under fire following allegations by human rights groups of murders, torture, beatings, and forced labour in the Marange diamond fields. Zimbabwe remains part of the KP.

“Given the uncertainty that currently exists regarding the situation in Zimbabwe, we call upon the Kimberley Process to expedite the release of its report and recommendations. The WFDB will do all that it can to support the efforts of the Kimberley Process to bring about a successful resolution of the situation,” Paz added.

 

Source URL: https://www.jewellerybusiness.com/news/wfdb-asks-kp-to-release-zimbabwe-report/

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