The World Diamond Council claimed historic success of the Kimberley Process plenary in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, November 1-3, 2011. The leadership of Mathieu Yamba was credited as a primary reason for the success of the plenary session.
The agreements approved and adopted by the KP on Marange, as well as on other important issues, including measures on reform, exhibit that the Kimberley Process is effective, resilient and viable. 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.
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.
The agreement on Marange continues to hold Zimbabwe responsible for technical KPCS, monitored by a KP team. It also acknowledges the important role of local civil society organization in Zimbabwe. Monitoring will commence as soon as November 5, 2011. 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 December 20, it will be removed from the KP.
At this Plenary, the KP has demonstrated that, in spite of a difficult two years, it is 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.
The World Diamond Council urges continued and constructive engagement with the Civil Society Coalition acknowledging the essential role they play in the future success of the Kimberley Process.
