The 4th Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) spanning two days of talks on “Producers in transition: the Changing Industry Dynamic", incorporated some interesting views by industry experts. Former Nobel Prize winner Joseph Stiglitz put forth his outlook on Africa which according to him is undergoing a renaissance, and the changes in the diamond industry would probably mean an improved life for millions of Africans living in diamond-producing states.

During the scheduled gala dinner HE Ellen Johnson Sirleaf spoke on the sustainable use of Liberia's diamond resources, and the making of Liberia as Kimberley compliant. She said, “Recognising this formidable challenge, my administration in collaboration with international partners has undertaken several pilot initiatives to integrate and compliment the KPCS, so as to assist Liberia build the partnership needed to create conditions for the sustainable use of our mineral resources to overcome poverty and promote human development." The Liberian government was now going to clear all diamond stocks acquired prior to the current KPCS international controls.

Bob Geldof, was critical in his speech and stressed on human rights being critical to what the diamond industry is doing. He pointed out Angola’s slackness in not willing to benefit its people. He also spoke on the Kimberley Process:"It is inconvenient especially for those who aren't that interested in the process, and some of them are here tonight."

The second conference day included a Canadian section, and a speech by Karel Kovanda, Chairman of the Kimberley Process. He emphasised that the Kimberley Process is 99.8% effective and not only 80% as Sir Bob Geldof had mentioned during his address.