LONDON – UNITED KINGDOM: In a groundbreaking meeting organized by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) Pakistan Branch, key figures from the judiciary of Pakistan and the United Kingdom convened to discuss the future of effective dispute resolution. The meeting was attended by the Honorable Mr. Justice Robert Knowles, Head of Technology and Construction Courts (TCC Courts) and Judge of the High Court of England and Wales, Honorable Judge Supreme Court of Pakistan Mr. Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, and Honorable Judge Lahore High Court Lahore Mr. Justice Jawad Hassan.

Catherine Dixon, Ciarb Director General, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration. "Ciarb is committed to offering its global experience to support jurisdictions to promote and establish best practice in effective dispute resolution," she said. "We are committed to working with the judiciary in Pakistan and Ciarb’s Pakistan Branch to deliver training and support and capacity building for effective dispute resolution in Pakistan. We are delighted to see the success of the Ciarb Pakistan branch following its launch in May 2022. Long may it continue." This statement underscores Ciarb's dedication to fostering a culture of arbitration and dispute resolution that is both efficient and fair. The organization's commitment to the Pakistani judiciary is particularly noteworthy, given the recent launch of its Pakistan branch.

The meeting was not just a ceremonial gathering but a platform for substantive dialogue. Among the attendees were Mian Sheraz Javaid, FCIArb, Lewis Johnston, Nasir Khan MBE FCIArb, and Mercy McBrayer, FCIArb. These experts in arbitration and dispute resolution contributed to a discussion that promises to have long-lasting impacts on the legal landscape of Pakistan.

One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was Mr. Justice Robert Knowles' offer to lend support in enhancing the case management system in Pakistan. This is a crucial step in ensuring that disputes are handled effectively and efficiently, thereby reducing the backlog of cases and improving the overall quality of justice.

Furthermore, Honorable Mr. Justice David Waksman, another esteemed Judge from the TCC Court, offered to provide training to TCC Judges in Pakistan. This is an invaluable opportunity for capacity building and the establishment of TCC Courts in Pakistan, which would specialize in technology and construction disputes.

The meeting organized by CIarb Pakistan Branch marks a significant milestone in the journey towards effective dispute resolution in Pakistan. It not only signifies the commitment of international bodies like CIarb but also shows the willingness of the Pakistani judiciary to adapt and evolve. With offers for training and system enhancement on the table, the future looks promising for dispute resolution in Pakistan. This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when institutions work together for the greater good. Indeed, it sets a precedent that other jurisdictions would do well to follow.