Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference kicks off

The inaugural edition of the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference was yesterday declared open by the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H E Saad Al Kharji, in the presence of several dignitaries, distinguished guests and top sector leaders.

Present at the opening of the three-day event were the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, H E Dr. Ahmed Al Sayed; Minister of Minerals and Energy of Botswana, H.E. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo; Executive Chairman of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Ahmed Bin Sulayem; President of the World Diamond Council (WDC), Feriel Zerouki; Vice Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), Kirit Bhansali; among others.

In his welcoming address, Al Kharji noted that the conference marks an important milestone in the gemstones industry’s collective journey as the luxury market evolved from shifting consumer preferences to transformative changes within the global supply chain.

“The International Diamond and Gem Conference provides a platform to examine these changes, inspire new ideas, drive collaboration and foster innovation within the industry. This year’s event holds particular significance as it coincides with the renowned Doha Jewelry and Jewelry Association, an initiative spearheaded by Qatar Tourism. The synergy between these two events speaks directly to our nation’s strategic vision of positioning Qatar as the global hub of luxury,” the Qatar Tourism Chairman said.

Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs H E Dr Ahmed Al Sayed (third left), Minister of Minerals and Energy of Botswana H E Bogolo Joy Kenewendo (second left), and Chairman of Qatar Tourism H E Saad Al Kharji (fourth left) with other dignitaries at the event. PIC: Oussama Zerrougi/The Peninsula

Speaking at the event, Dr Al Sayed said he was honoured to lead the process that got Qatar accepted into the Kimberley Process Certification System in 2021. The Kimberley Process (KP) unites governments, industry, and civil society to eradicate the global trade of conflict diamonds. By enforcing rigorous certification protocols and compliance assessments, the KP ensures that all participating countries maintain high standards that keep conflict diamonds out of the international market.

The conference, which ends on Friday, features panel discussions, breakout sessions, and sightseeing on the sidelines.