Business / Economy
MDC minister opposes Zimbabwe diamonds ban
12 Apr 2011 at 04:54hrs | Views
Mines and Mining Development deputy minister Gift Chimanikire says Zimbabwe is being unfairly treated by international organisations and countries that are opposed to the certification of diamonds from Chiadzwa by the Kimberley Process (KP).
Chimanikire said the country had fully complied with the KP requirements and should freely export its gems.
His comment follows reports that the European Union (EU) was calling for an urgent meeting to force the KP to reverse its recent decision allowing Zimbabwe to resume diamond exports.
Chimanikire said any embargo on Zimbabwean diamonds would affect ordinary Zimbabweans because the gems would be sold through informal markets, opening room for non- transparency in the sale of the gems.
Chimanikire said the country should be allowed to sell its diamonds to enable it to adequately pay civil servants.
Chimanikire said the country had fully complied with the KP requirements and should freely export its gems.
His comment follows reports that the European Union (EU) was calling for an urgent meeting to force the KP to reverse its recent decision allowing Zimbabwe to resume diamond exports.
Chimanikire said any embargo on Zimbabwean diamonds would affect ordinary Zimbabweans because the gems would be sold through informal markets, opening room for non- transparency in the sale of the gems.
Chimanikire said the country should be allowed to sell its diamonds to enable it to adequately pay civil servants.
Source - Byo24News
