In response to recent reports in the media on the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) pulling out of China and calling back of all the goods, the Council has stated that the remarks are incorrect and misguiding.

The reports refer to some Indians detained on 8th January 2010 on charges of diamond smuggling into China. It had been reported that if the Chinese government has raised detention as a reply to the arrest of three Chinese engineers in India (in reference with the industrial accident last September at Balco’s Korba unit, killing 41), the council will think of pulling out of the country.

Refuting the report, Vasant Mehta, Chairman, GJEPC said, “No one from the Council including me has ever made any such statement. The Gem and Jewellery Council and its members respect the laws of all countries, including those of China and does not support any illegal activities. We are aware and acknowledge help of Shanghai Diamond Exchange (SDE) to GJEPC in the growth of official trade between India and China in Diamonds and work along with SDE to grow this business.”