KP Addresses Conflict-Diamond Definition

RAPAPORT... The Kimberley Process (KP) discussed plans for a reformagenda at its intersessional meeting in Antwerp last week, includingbroadening its definition of conflict diamonds. "I believe the industry has expressed an unambiguous andclear position," acting president Stephane Fischler of the World DiamondCouncil (WDC) - the group that represents the interests of the globaldiamond industry within the KP - told Rapaport News in regardto updating the definition. "We are endorsing a change in the scope ofthe KP."  Other topics of discussion at the meeting were a deepening ofthe KP, including the strengthening of the system of controls and transforming the KP's recommendations into minimum requirements. Talks also covered the issue of professionalization of the KP by establishing a permanent KP secretariat - a United Nations-mandatedbody to oversee excluded countries' return to the diamond trade. The intersessional featured discussions ahead of decisions the KP may make at its plenary meeting, which will take place in Brussels in November. The fulfillment of this new agenda will be the start ofa "KP 2.0" -a way for the KP to adapt to changing consumer demands, according to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC).