James Allen News Center

Sierra Leone`s Vice President Samual Sam-Sumana stated in a recent meeting with
Israel Diamond Institute Group`s (IDI) Managing Director Eli Avidar that the past seven years have been relatively quiet in Sierra Leone, with diamonds being exported from the country being "conflict free."

He stated that his country is trying to restore growth and is adhering closely to the Kimberley Process. "All of the diamonds we export are conflict free," he stated.
The VP stated that diamonds are 90% of the country`s exports, and that many people can be rescued from poverty by the diamond industry.

He said that much of the hope of his country depends upon the ability to attract foreign investment and diamond traders. Private investors are very important to creating growth in Sierra Leone, and he is trying to create a supportive, stable and attractive business environment for private investors in the diamond trade.