Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company (PGJDC) and USAID Firms Project signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Friday. The MoU was signed by Bashir Ahmed Abbassi CEO, PGJDC and Stephen Wade COP, Firms Project USAID.
This MoU would facilitate the process of identifying and jointly implementing concrete actions that will lead Pakistani institutions to comply with the standards and certifications required by internationally recognised bodies such as London Assay Office, Gemological Institute of America and Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences.
In addition USAID and PGJDC would identify the progressive private sector stakeholders to serve as role models to be followed by others within the value chain and to serve as members of an advisory group to address issues of mutual importance to both organisations.
Both organisations would jointly implement strategy to increase women participation in the gems and jewellery industry, and would also ensure their participation in trade fairs to attract new buyers and explore new market opportunities for Pakistan. Co-operation between PGJDC and USAID Firms Project would also address the training needs of gems and jewellery sector, help exploring the investment opportunities for the private sector.
The collaboration between PGJDC and USAID will result in the development of the gemstone sector in the country. This step will provide support for the people in the gemstone sector through facilitation for business development, opportunities for international trade for gemstones and exposure to new marketing methods for promoting gemstone business. PGJDC and USAID will jointly identify the policy reforms for an enabling environment for the development of gems and jewellery sector in the country.-PR