The Presidents Meetingwill be held in Tel Aviv from June 14 to 16.
World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) President Ernie Blom says the Presidents Meeting of the WFDB and International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) in Tel Aviv next week will provide an opportunity to hold talks with some of the leaders of the world's major diamond mining companies on the creation of the Diamond Producers Association.
"I am looking forward to meeting some of the representatives of the mining firms," said Blom. "It is critical that the diamond firms are involved in the development of the diamond sector and address the important issues that face the industry."
The founding members of the DPA – ALROSA, De Beers, Rio Tinto, Dominion Diamond Corporation, Lucara Diamond Corporation, Petra Diamonds Ltd, and Gem Diamonds Ltd – aim to work together to support the development of the diamond sector.
“I am happy that after many years of discussions, the leading diamond producers have taken this long-awaited step," commented Blom. "In today’s world, no sector can thrive without the united effort of all stakeholders. The WFDB represents more than 20,000 companies that are members of our 30 diamond bourses in 21 countries and has been leading the industry, with codes of conduct and establishing best practices for its members.
"We have always done this in consultation with the mining companies, governments and sister organizations around the globe. In the almost 70 years of the WFDB's existence, we have learned that in order to achieve results, all industry sectors and all major centers need to speak one voice.
“Since the beginning of 2014 when the World Diamond Mark Foundation (WDMF), which the WFDB backs very strongly, started its quest to revive generic diamond promotion to enhance consumer desire and trust in diamonds, we have been in constant contact with all the leading diamond mining firms. At the Presidents’ Meeting in Tel Aviv, the WDMF will present its marketing plan to the leaders of all parts of the diamond industry, including the mining companies,” Blom added.
