New York: The World Diamond Council (WDC) will hold its 13th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from October 15 to 17, with the meeting hosted by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).

Among the items to be discussed at the AGM are industry recommendations for the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) review cycle and a proposed renewal of the WDC System of Warranties, the WDC said in a statement. The WDC focuses on preventing conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate global supply chain and protecting the value of natural diamonds.

“The WDC is going forward with its Strategic Plan aimed at enhancing the KPCS and encouraging diamond industry self-regulation to increase supply chain transparency,” stated Stephane Fischler, acting President of the WDC. “I am confident that our collaborative efforts will contribute to the further development of diamond industry integrity and strengthen consumer confidence in the diamond value chain.”

The program will begin on October 15 with the WDC Board of Directors meetings. On October 16, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of the DMCC, will make the keynote address at the opening session of the AGM. A Welcome Gala Dinner with all the Dubai Diamond Conference delegates will follow.

“This is the second time that the WDC has hosted their Annual General Meeting in Dubai, one of the world’s leading market places for rough diamonds,” said Bin Sulayem. “The DMCC is delighted to see representatives of diamond bourses, banks, and diamond miners gather in an Arab country once again to discuss and tackle important topics, from supply chain integrity, to consumer confidence and demand. The WDC has been a strong supporter in helping grow Dubai into a diamond hub and we are privileged to host them.”