2002

E.U. Signs on to Conflict Diamond Plan

Sep. 2002

The European Union's head office has announced plans for a single set of rules for Europe to stop the trade of conflict diamonds

In the past, Antwerp objected to proposed diamond import regulations by the EU, stating that the current regulations enforced in the diamond center are stricter and more effective. Possibly an attempt to meet these standards, the proposed EU system will be closely based on Antwerp's existing monitoring controls.

"As long as the proposed rules go hand in hand with the Kimberley Process, the WDC supports it whole heartedly," says World Diamond Council (WDC) Chairman, Eli Izhakoff. He estimates that the first certificates will probably be issued In January.