Alrosa’s Oulin Honored by Lukashenko

Alexander Lukashenko, president of the Republic of Belarus, has honored Alrosa Vice President Sergei Oulin in recognition of his contribution to the global diamond trade.

Lukashenko decorated Olin with an Order of Honor, signed by the president on September 2, Lukashenko’s press service said in a statement.

The award was conferred on Olin “in recognition of his considerable personal contribution to developing international trade and economic relations in the diamond industry.”

“Based on our firsthand experience in this region, we can confirm that Mr Oulin’s continuous involvement has been instrumental in the survival and success of the diamond industry in Belarus,” Isi Mörsel, director of Antwerp-based Dali Diamond, said. “Thanks to his vision, energy and commitment, we have seen a tremendous impact on the diamond business, and the regional economy and social fabric of the region.”
 

A number of diamond polishing facilities are located in Belarus. During the first quarter of 2008, Belarus imported 24,423 carats of rough diamonds worth $7.7 million, averaging $315.28 per carat. Russia, where Alrosa holds a monopoly on rough diamond exports, is Belarus’ main rough diamonds trading partner.