Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) hosted its 21st Annual General Meeting recently in, Colombo. Re-appointed as President, Ajward Deen has worked tirelessly along with his committee to strengthen and uplift the Gem and Jewellery industry to great heights over the past year.
The Gem and Jewellery industry continues to brave a range of obstacles, spanning from the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to the nation’s ongoing economic and political challenges. The SLGJA has had a momentous year. Recently, the SLGJA, together with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and Export Development Board (EDB) unveiled FACETS Sri Lanka 2024, scheduled to be held at Cinnamon Grand Colombo from the 6th to the 8th of January, 2024.
Speaking at the AGM, President of the SLGJA, Ajward Deen stated, ‘Our association has had some commendable achievements in the past year. We have dedicated substantial efforts to implementing a series of strategic initiatives with the aim of elevating and enhancing the industry. By adhering steadfastly to ethical mining standards, we aim to empower miners to augment gem production and explore new mines in a sustainable and responsible manner.
‘The profound significance of the Gem and Jewelry industry, both in our country’s history and in shaping its future, cannot be overstated. It is our collective responsibility to preserve this industry for the benefit of future generations. This includes protecting local gem mining operations, which fall under the nation’s mineral rights’.