President of Sierra Leone visits IDE

During his official visit to Israel, President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma and his ministers also paid a visit at the Israel Diamond Exchange. President Ernest Bai Koroma was hosted by the IDE President Yoram Dvash and bourse management and IDE Board members in the Conference Room of the IDE. IDE's CEO, Eli Avidar, welcomed the president and his entourage which included his ministers and the Israeli Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Paul Hirschson.

IDE President Yoram Dvash said, "Israel and Sierra Leone share a long tradition in the diamond sector. Sierra Leone was a key country in developing and promoting the Kimberley Process and we thank you for that. We want to invite you to visit us during the World Diamond Congress which will be held in Israel in 2018."

President Koroma thanked President Dvash for his hospitality, and said: "Sierra Leone has known difficulties but we have dealt with them and come through them reinforced and we are full partners in the Kimberley Process and diamond trading is being conducted successfully.”

He further added that, “There are opportunities to develop diamond deposits in the country. Although some mining deposits are depleting, there are still kimberlites that are worth researching and can be highly worthwhile. We want to continue to be active in the diamond sector and market our special diamonds. Investing in Sierra Leone will provide a return on investment, and Sierra Leone will also receive its fair share from its diamonds. This is a situation where everybody profits. Our government has come to Israel to promote and strengthen our relationship with the State of Israel in all fields."

Israel's Ambassador in Sierra Leone, Paul Hirschson said, "Sierra Leone has business opportunities, and in the capital, Freetown, one feels safe and it is pleasant to walk around. The Israeli Embassy and its team are ready to help all Israelis with projects." The President and his entourage were familiarised with the trading hall and the Technology Division of the exchange.