ELI AVIDAR has become the new Managing Director of the Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) as of the beginning of this year. Avidar replaces Efraim Raviv, who retired after holding this position for 20 years.

Eli Avidar has had a rich career in Israel�s foreign service and government. He represented Israel abroad as Consul-General for Hong Kong and Macau from 2001 to 2005. Prior to that he was Head of the Trade Representation Office of Israel in Doha, Qatar from 1999 � 2001. From 1993 � 1996 Avidar was Israel�s Deputy Consul-General in Philadelphia.

Within the Foreign Ministry Head Office in Jerusalem Avidar served in several senior positions. In 1999 Avidar he was Senior Diplomatic Advisor to the then Foreign Minister Ariel Sharon, and in 1998 Diplomatic Advisor to the Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 1996 � 1997 Avidar was responsible within the Foreign Ministry for developing relations with Islamic leaders around the world.

IDI, a non-profit, public interest company comprising all of the organizations and institutions of The Israeli Diamond Industry, is responsible for the branding, marketing and business promotion of the industry. In addition, IDI acts to promote new sources of rough diamonds, as well as professional training, publishing and security consultancy.

IDI Chairman Moti Ganz said, �The Israel Diamond Institute has played a key role in the development and success of the Israeli industry. The global industry is undergoing rapid change. I look forward to working with Eli Avidar in focusing IDI�s efforts on meeting the challenges of the future.�

New Managing Director Eli Avidar said, �IDI�s mission is to facilitate the Israeli Diamond Industry�s expansion into new markets and consolidation in existing markets. IDI will focus its attention on seeking new and creative ways to promote the industry worldwide.�