ICC Sri Lanka’s third annual arbitration conference explores key legal and trade issues

The International Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka (ICC Sri Lanka) successfully concluded its third annual Arbitration Conference last week at Colombo’s Galadari Hotel. Marking the centenary of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, the event celebrated a century of advancing global trade and investment through dispute resolution and prevention.

ICC Sri Lanka, a part of the expansive ICC network spanning over 170 countries, orchestrated this year’s conference, a platform for legal experts, practitioners, scholars, and business leaders. The conference’s multifaceted discussions, under the theme “Advantages & Disadvantages of Arbitration and Commercial Mediation in Sri Lanka,” delved into pertinent topics. Notably, the event featured nine distinguished local and international speakers, including Justice Priyantha Jayawardhane PC, who highlighted “Enforcement Settings Aside from Arbitration Awards.”

Reflecting on the conference’s success, ICC Sri Lanka Chairman Anthony Shanil Fernando stated, “The ICC Sri Lanka Arbitration Conference this year was a resounding success, attracting over 180 participants and esteemed speakers from Singapore, Malaysia, India, and beyond.” Notable figures like John Denton, Secretary General of ICC Paris, and Claudia Salomon, President of ICC Court of Arbitration Paris, were among those who addressed the gathering.

Arbitration, a growing alternative dispute resolution method in Sri Lanka’s legal landscape, has gained prominence as the nation aims to establish itself as a regional hub for international business and investment. Amid this pursuit, comprehending the nuances of arbitration’s benefits and challenges is of paramount importance. One of the conference’s panel discussions focused on the Singapore Convention on mediation and the 1958 New York Convention, pivotal frameworks for arbitral awards.

Fernando also highlighted ICC Sri Lanka’s broader role beyond trade facilitation, encompassing responsible business conduct, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development. Emphasizing ethical business practices, ICC Sri Lanka underscores the importance of responsible operations that consider societal well-being and environmental impact.

The conference featured an esteemed lineup of speakers and panellists, including Justice Priyantha Jayawardena, PC; Vikum de Abrew, PC; Dinal Phillips, PC; Viveka Siriwardena, PC; Dr. Harsha Cabral, PC; Dato Jude Benny; Tejus Chauhan; Anand Mujmudar; Shanil Fernando; K. Murali Pany; Alex Ngu; Anil Changaroth; and numerous local representatives from various sectors. The event culminated with a vote of thanks from Hemakumara Gunasekera, Secretary of ICC Sri Lanka.