LAHORE - PAKISTAN: The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) Pakistan Branch took a monumental step by holding an international convention focused on disputes resolution in Lahore, Pakistan. The event served as a platform for professionals to discuss the evolving landscape of arbitration and mediation, not just within Pakistan but also on a global scale. Ciarb's involvement lent the conference an air of credibility and gravitas that was palpable from the moment one stepped into the venue.

The Pakistan International Disputes Weekend (PIDW) 2023 was a two-day affair that was nothing short of groundbreaking. The event was meticulously planned to cover a wide array of topics pertinent to the legal and arbitration sectors. The schedule was packed, yet well-organized, ensuring that attendees could make the most out of their time at the conference.

Mian Sheraz Javaid, the Chief Organizer of PIDW'23 and Chair of Ciarb Pakistan Branch, deserves special mention for his role in orchestrating this landmark event. His leadership and vision were instrumental in bringing together a diverse group of professionals and experts. Under his guidance, Ciarb Pakistan Branch was able to execute PIDW'23 at a national level, successfully gathering like-minded professionals to review, reflect, and revive Pakistan’s current legal landscape.

The first day of PIDW'23 was a resounding success. Esteemed panelists from various sectors took the stage to share their insights and expertise. The dialogue was rich, the discourse enlightening, and the atmosphere electric. The day served as a testament to the power of open dialogue in shaping the future of dispute resolution in Pakistan. What set PIDW'23 apart was its extraordinary lineup of speakers. The event featured judiciary members from different parts of Pakistan, legal practitioners from around the globe, ADR Centre representatives, Legal 500 law firms, and even the Attorney General of Pakistan. This diverse group brought a wealth of perspectives to the table, making the discussions all the more enriching.

The second day of PIDW'23 was particularly noteworthy as it marked the introduction of the proposed Domestic Arbitration Act 2023, which I had the honor of authoring. This proposed act aims to streamline the arbitration process within Pakistan, making it more efficient and effective. The introduction of this act was a pivotal moment for the conference and for the future of arbitration in Pakistan. The event's success was also evident in the high level of audience engagement. The speaking sessions were followed by elaborate question and answer sessions, where attendees could directly interact with the panelists. The turnout was impressive, indicating a keen interest in the topics discussed and the future of dispute resolution in Pakistan.

One of the crowning achievements of PIDW'23 was the passing of the Pakistan International Disputes Weekend Declaration. This declaration ratified the findings and agreements reached during the conference, serving as a blueprint for future initiatives in the field of dispute resolution. With the Declaration, PIDW'23 has become a permanent fixture in Pakistan's legal landscape. The event has set a precedent, and fully intends to continue this legacy in the coming years, starting with PIDW'24.

As PIDW'23 came to an end, it left Ciarb Pakistan Branch with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. They look forward to meeting all those who could not make it to PIDW'24, as Ciarb Pakistan Branch continues to shape the future of dispute resolution in Pakistan.