Mr. Speaker, Canadians are concerned over the link between the trade in illicit diamonds and armed conflict in parts of Africa. Since May 2000, Canada has actively participated in an intergovernmental process which aims to develop an international certification scheme for rough diamonds known as the Kimberley Process.
I am pleased to inform the House that on March 18 the Government of Canada will host the next meeting of the Kimberley Process in Ottawa. This important meeting is sponsored by the Human Security Program of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. The problem of conflict diamonds must be addressed in order to advance international peace and security and to protect the legitimate diamond industry in Canada.
I hope all members of the House will join me in wishing all of the Kimberley Process participants a very successful meeting next week.