Russian, Belgian Diamond Giants Strengthen Ties

Russian diamond mining monopoly Alrosa has signed a cooperation agreement with the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. The agreement aims "to improve the efficiency of cooperation between AWDC and Alrosa over the next three years and includes the intention for both parties to contribute to the development of a competitive rough and polished diamond market in Russia and the promotion of Russian diamond production on the Belgian market".

The official signing ceremony took place on December 1 in Antwerp, and the document was signed by the Alrosa President Fyodor Andreev and AWDC President Stephane Fischler.

The agreement also calls for Alrosa and the Antwerp diamond sector to work more closely and exchange expertise and information regarding the implementation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

"In addition, both parties commit to exchange information, such as market intelligence, and inform each other on industry events, such as seminars and conferences, the development of new technologies or market opportunities. The cooperation also provides an opportunity to set up diamond grading and sorting courses for Russian students at HRD Antwerp."

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