While the Zimbabwean authorities have acknowledged 'indications of significant non-compliance,' and have pledged to work with Kimberley Process authorities to address these issues, the WDC will not yield in expressing its deep concern about diamonds originating from Marange it said in an announcement at Windhoek, Namibia on November 6th.

“The ability of Zimbabwe to harness its natural resources, including diamonds, for the benefit of its people is our primary concern,” said Eli Izhakoff, Chairman of the WDC.  “This is a challenging situation, but one in which determined and focused engagement provides the best chances for a successful outcome.”

The agreed joint work plan will consist of rigorous and comprehensive scrutiny over the next 12 months, as the Kimberley Process works closely with the Zimbabwean authorities to achieve full compliance. 
 
"The diamond industry will be watching closely, along with the rest of the world, during the next 12 months to ensure that this opportunity is not squandered," said Mr. Izhakoff.  "This is a complicated and challenging issue, meaning there can be no perfect solution.  However, this working plan represents robust and sincere action by the Kimberley Process to achieve the common objectives held by all of its participants." 

Since its inception in 2003, the Kimberley Process has played a key role in the effort to eliminate the scourge of conflict diamonds from the global diamond trade.  Today, the Kimberley Process ensures that more than 99% of the global production of rough diamonds is certified to be from conflict-free sources.