Press Release: South Africa paid tribute today to Eli Izhakoff, the outgoing president of the World Diamond Council, for his significant role in establishing the Kimberley Process, at the 10th anniversary intersessional meeting taking place in Kimberley. Susan Shabangu, the Minister of Mineral Resources for South Africa, presented the award on behalf of South Africa's government. In addition to Izhakoff, an award was also presented to Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the former Deputy President of South Africa and former Minister of Minerals and Energy when the Kimberley Process was being founded 13 years ago. Moreover, Robert Fowler, the former Ambassador of Canada to the United Nations was also honored. All three were honored for their contribution to the creation and success of the Kimberley Process. Shabangu commended all three for their efforts that have brought the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme to where it stands today. "The presentation of this well deserved major award was a very proud moment for Eli and the entire World Diamond Council family,” said the incoming World Diamond Council president, Avi Paz, who also attended the 10th anniversary Kimberley Process meeting.
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