The European Union (EU) has sharply criticized Kimberley Process (KP) chair Ahmed Bin Sulayem for his conduct at the latest plenary and the meeting’s failure to address key issues.
Ongoing Frustration Over Russian Diamonds
From November 11 to 15, the KP plenary convened without addressing the impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine on the global rough-diamond trade for the third consecutive year. The EU argued this omission undermines the KP’s credibility and damages consumer trust in natural diamonds.
“Due to Russia’s objections, the KP has refused to tackle this critical issue,” an EU spokesperson said. In response, the EU and G7 have implemented a ban on Russian diamonds, introducing a traceability system to reassure consumers they are not purchasing conflict diamonds.
Controversy Over Antwerp Certification Node
Bin Sulayem, who is also the chairman of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), publicly criticized the EU’s proposed model to centralize diamond certification in Antwerp.
“This self-serving approach disrupts trade flows and imposes economic burdens, particularly on African diamond-producing nations,” Bin Sulayem stated, calling the proposal an undue financial strain that undermines the KP’s core mission.
He quoted Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar to reinforce his point: “Europe has to grow out of the mindset that Europe’s problems are the world’s problems, but the world’s problems are not Europe’s problems.”
EU Fires Back
The EU strongly condemned Bin Sulayem’s remarks, calling them baseless and inappropriate for a neutral chair. “His comments undermine the Kimberley Process’s decades-long spirit and compromise the impartiality expected of his role,” the EU said.
Looking Ahead
Despite the controversy, Bin Sulayem will continue as KP chair through 2025, surpassing the usual one-year rotation for member countries. The prolonged chairmanship raises questions about the KP’s ability to address pressing global issues amidst increasing criticism.