World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) Vice President Eli Avidar  has resigned from his position the organisation   announced recently. CIBJO added that Avidar   plans to contest in the forthcoming  parliamentary elections to  the Israeli Knesset, which will take place on April 9.

"Five years ago, I had the honour and the privilege to be invited to join the CIBJO Board of Directors by the President, Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri, and given the opportunity to serve as Vice President,” Avidar said. “In 2007 I left the Israeli Foreign Ministry, where I had served as a career diplomat, to join the diamond industry. Now 12 years later, I feel compelled to go back and serve my people, as an elected member of the Israeli Knesset."

He added: "I greatly value my time in the industry, and in particular the period I served as a CIBJO officer. In particular, I feel indebted to Gaetano, who taught me a great deal about the meaning of leadership. I am privileged to consider him a dear friend."

Dr. Cavalieri  commented: "It is with regret that we  accept Eli's resignation, but we applaud his reasons for doing so. There is no higher calling than public office, and from our experience Eli has the commitment, knowledge, skills, talent and motivation to be a tremendous parliamentarian. Our loss will be his country's gain. We wish him the very best of luck."

Prior to being appointed as CIBJO Vice President, Avidar had  served as Executive Director of the Israel Diamond Exchange and Managing Director of the Israel Diamond Institute.  

Pic Cap: Outgoing CIBJO Vice President Eli Avidar (left), with CIBJO President Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri.