Kimberly Process (KP) chair Ahmed Bin Sulayem has recently paid a visit to Mozambique to strengthen KP’s mandate and to engage in dialogue with African countries on the rough diamond trade.
During his visit, Bin Sulayem met with Mozambique’s top government officials including President Filipe Nyusi and Prime Minister Carlos Agostinho do Rosário, according to an Idexonline report.
"Mozambique is not currently a member of the KP, but it is an aspiring candidate since it presented its membership portfolio in 2012. Following the discovery of diamonds earlier this year in the Massangena district of the Gaza province, local authorities have undertaken efforts to garner more support for its candidacy in order to receive clearance to export its conflict-free diamonds. While the country’s economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture accounting for around 25% of the total GDP, the export of precious metals and gemstones is emerging as one of the country’s major economic pillars. The discovery of diamonds will add to this vibrant sector, but the size of the Mozambican diamond resources remains undeclared for security reasons,” said Bin Sulayem.
"Today, it is reported that several international mining companies have joined the country’s diamond exploration rush. And as such, receiving the KP approval stamp would allow the country to export diamonds and spur its economy.
“For years, the precious metals and gemstones sectors have been among the main drivers of the country’s growth and given the challenging economic conditions today, it is now more important than ever to extend our support to the Mozambican leaders to help them meet the KPCS requirements," he added. (Photo courtesy: Idexonline)
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