Congress of the World Jewelry Confederation (Confédération Internationale de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie et Orfèvrerie, CIBJO) opened in Tel Aviv. It is attended by about 200 representatives of the world jewelry industry (of which approximately 130 are delegates of national jewelry associations from around the world), as well as representatives of international corporations and industry organizations.
The president of CIBJO, Gaetano Cavalieri, opened this annual event, emphasizing the openness and transparency of the organization's meetings. "We are an organization that invites us to participate in the common cause, our meetings are open, all interested parties are invited to participate in it, and they are given the opportunity to express their opinion." And when we make decisions, this is done in the bright light of the day, "said Dr. Cavalieri.
Speaking with a keynote address, South African Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu said that one of her country's goals in 2013 as chair of the Kimberley Process is to demonstrate the relevance of this organization. She stressed that the parties concerned should confirm their commitment to the diamond industry.
"We all need to advance diamonds and ensure that they are not used to fuel conflicts and insurgents.We must lead the business of the KP along an open path that leads to harmony.The diamonds must continue to play an important role in Africa because it is a matter of life and death, and we must also give the opportunity to see future prospects for future generations. "South Africa seeks to contribute to the process in order to make diamonds appropriate to the times," said Susan Shabanga.
Then the Minister of Mining of Zimbabwe, Obert Mpofu, spoke, who said that the jewelery industry in his country is in its infancy. "We urge you to show interest in the diamond industry of Zimbabwe and to participate in its development," he said to the congress participants.