An Israeli delegation recently visited Qatar for the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference, marking a key moment in prospective trade relations between Israel and Qatar, similar to the Abraham Accords. Leaders from the Israel Diamond Exchange expressed optimism about future collaborations amidst existing geopolitical tensions. The visit was historic as it marked the first attendance of Israeli representatives at a diamond conference in Qatar, showcasing potential avenues for economic cooperation.
Israel’s recent visit by a delegation to the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference marks a potential turning point in relations between Israel and Qatar. Attending this inaugural event during a turbulent period, including ongoing conflicts and negotiations related to Gaza and Hamas, the delegation is looking to foster trade links similar to those established with other Arab nations under the Abraham Accords.
Nissim Zuaretz and Eran Zini, leaders of the Israel Diamond Exchange, expressed optimism regarding future collaborations. Zuaretz remarked on the importance of Israel’s participation in global diamond markets, noting, “We hope that this historic moment will be the first step in the trade relations between the Israeli Diamond Exchange and Doha free trade zones in Qatar.” This visit is significant as it marked the first official attendance of Israeli economic representatives at a diamond conference in Qatar.
The invitation came after careful consideration and guidance from government officials, with the leaders showcasing Israel’s prominence in the diamond trading community. “Israel is one of the biggest bourses in the world, so it’s very important for Israel’s industry for us to be there,” Zuaretz added.
During the conference, prominent figures from the global gemstone industry spoke, including Ahmed bin Sulayem from DMCC and Botswana’s minister of minerals and energy, among others. The Israeli delegation flew to Qatar via Dubai, given the absence of direct flights or diplomatic relations, highlighting the complexity of this visit. Zuaretz mentioned being welcomed warmly by Qatari officials, which fostered comfortable interactions with key decision-makers.
Qatar aims to establish itself as a major player in the diamond market, hoping to develop a diamond exchange similar to Dubai’s. The conference served as a platform for enhancing Qatar’s position within global diamond trade ecosystems.
Though Israel and Qatar currently lack official trade connections, both Zuaretz and Zini anticipate changes on the horizon. Zini commented on the significance of their participation, suggesting it marks a shift toward a more collaborative future. “I think something has changed for the future,” he stated.
The visit by Israeli delegates to the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference signifies an important milestone in Israel-Qatar relations, especially in the context of trade and economic collaboration. Both leaders expressed hope for future partnerships, emphasizing the potential for developing a new landscape in Middle Eastern trade relationships, influenced by broader geopolitical changes and aspirations for peace. By engaging with Qatari officials at this high-profile conference, Israel takes a substantial step toward formalizing its economic ties with Qatar, possibly leading to significant trade developments in the near future.
Original Source: www.idexonline.com
