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Sierra Leone Vice President: All of the Diamonds We Export are Conflict Free |
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Tuesday, 12 February 2008 |
 In his address before the participants of the Third International Rough
Diamond Conference, Sierra Leone’s Vice President Samuel Sam-Sumana stated that
in a recent meeting with Israel Diamond Institute Group’s (IDI) Managing
Director Eli Avidar he informed Avidar that Sierra Leone aspires to strengthen
its diamond industry. The Vice President noted: “The current atmosphere in
Sierra Leone encourages foreign investment. In the past seven years we have
enjoyed quiet in Sierra Leone. This was expressed in the peaceful transition of
government last September.”
“We are taking steps to restore growth in our country. We adhere closely to
the Kimberley Process. All of the diamonds we export are conflict free,” he
stressed.
Sam-Sumana noted that diamonds constitute 90% of the country’s revenue from
export. He stressed that many people can be saved from poverty through the
diamond industry. “Much depends on us and our ability to attract foreign
investment and diamond traders. Sierra Leone recognizes the importance of
private investors – they are in fact a significant part of our business plan.
The aim is the creation of a supportive, stable and attractive business
environment.”
The Vice President referred to the government’s reexamination of all of the
country’s mining agreements. “Our aim is not to arouse difficulties but to
ensure that the agreements are fair and ensure that the people of Sierra Leone
receive their rightful share.”
“We encourage international companies to develop industries and mining in the
country. The kind of enterprises that will create added value and job
opportunities for our people.”
Sierra
Leone, Kimberley Process, Diamond Mining
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