The Group of Seven (G7), an intergovernmental organisation, which consists of the world’s largest developed economies (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States), worked together with the leaders of the European Union (EU) to impose sanctions on Russian diamonds.

This was meant to stop diamond revenue to fund Russia’s war against Ukraine, which started in February 2022 and is still ongoing. Currently, Antwerp is the only place in the world where rough diamonds can receive a G7 certificate.

The Kimberley Process (KP) chairperson Ahmed Bin Sulayem who is also the executive chairperson for the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) told Rough & Polished’s Mathew Nyaungwa Europe’s bid to inspect and approve of all diamonds emanating from foreign jurisdictions is an “abusive overreach”.

He said KP had 60 nodes following the recent acceptance of Uzbekistan as the latest member. Sulayem said a single node operating outside the KP mandate undercuts the diamond watchdog’s achievements and imposes constraints that Africa and other producer nations simply cannot afford, nor should tolerate.

Below are excerpts of the interview.

What is your reaction to Europe’s desire for a single diamond control node outside the KP framework?

We cannot overlook this pressing issue impacting both our industry and particularly, the KP itself. This proposal, motivated by sanctions against Russian diamonds, carries far- reaching implications that extend beyond its stated objectives. The Kimberley Process has always been built on collaboration and mutual responsibility, with 59 control nodes across member nations. With Uzbekistan joining, that number is now 60. This network, developed over 21 years, is built on trust, respect, regional empowerment, and shared accountability.

How does the introduction of a single node affect trade?

Introducing a single-node model, working outside the KP framework, disrupts trade flows and adds a costly layer of control that directly undermines the sovereignty and economic stability of the very nations the KP exists to support – in particular Africa. Let me rephrase that: this self-serving approach raises financial burdens and disproportionately impacts African diamond-producing countries. Recently, and reactively backsliding against widespread criticism from across the global diamond industry, Europe have now offered Botswana to maintain a control node – again outside the KP framework.

However, even this concession comes with the stipulation that these nodes remain under European oversight – an affront to African sovereignty, as it essentially requires European inspection and approval of these countries’ own resources. This is an abusive overreach. This external control disregards the fundamental right of nations to validate and manage their own resources. The KP has provided a globally recognised model for over two decades, where each nation operates autonomously within a framework of trust and shared responsibility.

To introduce foreign-controlled nodes undercuts our achievements and imposes constraints that Africa and other producer nations simply cannot afford, nor should tolerate. The impact of a mechanism imposed by external parties should concern all KP members, not just Botswana. Centralising control in a single node introduces significant risks. As I noted in my opening remarks at the November plenary, compromising and corrupting a single, centralized node is far easier than breaching a robust, decentralized network of 60 nodes. Recent cases in Antwerp’s courts underscore the risks associated with such centralisation and the potential conflicts of interest it invites.

While the KP may not have ultimate authority over Europe’s decisions, or any other jurisdiction for that matter, we must continue to advocate for fair and inclusive practices in our industry.

How did you manage to unify KP, which has membership known for diverse viewpoints?

This past year has brought both challenges and diverse viewpoints. We can all agree that the unity of the KP has been stretched and tested in recent years. Yet, we can proudly say that, despite differences, we have collectively pulled together to make tangible progress. It is our shared commitment to finding solutions, even when we disagree, that truly matters.

When the UAE assumed the KP Chair, we committed to making 2024 a year of meaningful progress, not merely in words but through action. I am proud to say we have collectively honoured that commitment, throughout the year, and with significant milestones both in our special Plenary session in May, and importantly, this week.

What is expected in 2025 from KP?

As we move toward 2025, each milestone achieved reminds us that the KP is advancing, driven by the KP family’s efforts to foster positive change in the diamond industry.

What was the highlight of chairmanship of the KP this year?

The inauguration of the KP Secretariat in Botswana stands as a landmark achievement. This new foundation strengthens our operational backbone, enhancing coordination and providing a permanent institutional home to serve the KP’s long-term goals.

You oversaw the readmission of CAR to the KP family and the full lifting of a trade embargo on its rough. Doesn’t this stand out as one of your top achievements?

Yes, among our most significant achievements is the re-admission of the Central African Republic to the KP. This decision highlights our commitment to inclusivity and to supporting member states on their journeys toward peace and prosperity. As we welcome CAR back, we renew our dedication to helping nations where diamonds can serve as a force for stability, development, and empowerment. After ten long years, I applaud all of those involved in making this happen.

Can you shed more light on the proof of concept for the digitalisation of KP certificate that your introduced?

The UAE introduced a proof of concept for the digitalization of the KP certification process. This best practice initiative reflects our vision to modernise and streamline KP operations, ensuring they are robust and aligned with the demands of an increasingly digital world. Digitalization brings greater transparency and efficiency, bolstering the trust that stakeholders and the public place in our mission. Talking of digitalisation, the UAE also delivered a new website, which was presented during the plenary week. The much-updated site will go live to serve the KP Family and the general public.

UAE will be the custodian chair for KP in 2025. Which country was elected as your deputy?

Thailand was elected as the vice chair. I look forward to working closely with their delegation as UAE assume the role as custodian chair in 2025. Thailand’s dedication and vision give us confidence that when they assume the chair in 2026, they will lead with purpose and integrity, building on the achievements we celebrate today.

What will UAE focus on as the custodian chair in 2025?

We recognise that our journey does not end here. 2025 has been designated as the “Year of Best Practice,” calling on us to deepen our commitment to continuous improvement. In the coming year, we will focus on refining methods, strengthening compliance, and ensuring that the KP remains a model of collaboration and efficacy in safeguarding our industry.

Is KP still a relevant body for the prevention of conflict diamonds from entering the global market?

The Kimberley Process remains -the- vital and only forum where diverse voices come together to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the global market and to protect the integrity of the diamond trade.

What is your message to the KP’s family going into 2025?

As we move into 2025, I urge every KP participant to prioritise unity and collaboration, especially in these challenging times. The Kimberley Process has always been defined by its commitment to dialogue – a forum where all voices are heard and valued. Now more than ever, we must reaffirm our dedication to that spirit of cooperation.

We may hold diverse perspectives, yet our goals remain aligned. The KP’s strength lies in its members’ shared commitment to fostering a sustainable and responsible diamond industry that benefits millions around the world. This commitment must transcend borders and political divides.

• Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished, recently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates