"This is the kind of exchange we want to see: more technological and energetic," said IDE President Yoram Dvash, who also mentioned that new developments are set to take place at the bourse.
The new Laser Cutting Room was inaugurated on Thursday in the Shimshon Building entrance in the presence of IDE President Yoram Dvash, Israel Diamond Manufacturers Association (IsDMA) President Kobi Koren, IDE members and one of the moving forces behind the initiative, Meir Anavi. The ceremony was conducted by IDE CEO Eli Avidar.
Exchange President Dvash greeted the audience and thanked the initiators of the project. "I want to thank the developers, especially the Anavi and Namdar families, Nir Sela and Ophir Eliahu, who are all our good friends and played a part in the initiative. The exchange supported it and pushed it forward and established the factory in an excellent location, but this is a project that was done for the benefit of the industry.
Honey spoke about the latest developments in Israel's diamond production in the wake of recent moves. "This laser machine can cut stones at a very high level with virtually no damage. This is the kind of exchange we want to see: more technological and energetic.
"Soon we expect to receive the permit for the adjacent Sinova laser factory covering 400 sq m area. In less than a month, Alrosa President Andrey Zharkov, will be here for the International Diamond Week and we will formally inaugurate the international tenders center. Zharkov will bring large stones and the crown of Catherine the Great which will on display during the fair."
He added that an Internet Center will be opened in the coming months in the entrance of the Maccabi Building, saying that the budgets had been approved. He said the management was determined to return the bourse to its former glory and prosperity.
"We are receiving the first indications that 2017 will be better than 2016. There is a rise in China and the US is going well," he said, adding that he expected President Trump as a former businessman to bring the country's economy back on track.
IsDMA President Kobi Koren praised the bourse for promoting the new technological asset for the benefit of all. "Our policy, as a center that deals with large stones, is to build factories near the bourse in order to save money."
Meir Anavi also spoke about the importance of the new technology, saying Sinovia produced cutting-edge equipment which would help diamantaires enormously.
