(IDEX Online) - Botswana's diamond industry is joining forces with the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) to promote awareness of its manufacturing activity.The country is the world's second biggest diamond producer, after Russia. The Botswana Diamond Manufacturers Association (BDMA) helps manufacturers develop their businesses.The partnership announced yesterday (10 May) aims to raise awareness of Botswana's diamond industry across global markets.Last December Lily James (pictured), the Emmy-nominated British actress, visited in her new role as global ambassador for the New York-based NDC.The 33-year-old, known for roles in Pam and Tommy and Downton Abbey, visited Lucara's Karowe diamond mine, as well as the De Beers Global Sightholder Sales facility in the capital Gaborone.She also went to the KGK Diamonds cutting and polishing facility in Gaborone, which employs mostly local people."Botswana represents a crucial location within the Natural Diamond Industry. We look forward to this partnership allowing us to more widely share the values of the Botswana diamond industry with the world", shared David Kellie, CEO of the NDC.BDMA chairman Siddarth Gothi said: "We have worked with De Beers and other large NDC members for years and are excited to take this next step in strengthening this industry relationship."