Mian Sheraz Javaid Highlights Pakistan's Growing Role in Regional ADR at IBA Karachi Event
Sheraz’s insights during the panel discussion focused on the critical role that organisations, particularly the Ciarb Pakistan Branch, have played in nurturing the ADR landscape in Pakistan. He underscored how the branch’s efforts have not only improved the local legal framework but have also contributed to enhancing Pakistan’s presence and influence within the broader regional ADR ecosystem.
The significance of the event was further underscored by the presence of various experts from different countries and disciplines. Sheraz’s contributions were part of a larger conversation that examined the key issues facing the ADR sector in the region. Alongside him on the panel were other distinguished speakers, including Dr. Jo DeLaGarza-Chitlik, Mohamed Aseel Hassan, Yuko Nitta, and Gyanendra Prasad Kayastha, who brought their diverse perspectives on how ADR is evolving both regionally and internationally.
Sheraz spoke during the discussion that a huge mileage has been covered by the Ciarb Pakistan Branch in the development of an unexampled network of highly skilled ADR professionals in Pakistan. He further said that these experts are now representing the country across the region, boosting stronger ties between nations and increasing the country's influence in the global ADR arena. His comments underscored the importance of ADR in fostering cooperation and creating a more integrated legal environment in the region, particularly in countries such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and other neighbouring jurisdictions.
Another point made by Sheraz is the changing face of mediation in Pakistan. He pointed out that "going forward, as the ADR infrastructure in Pakistan continues to mature, more companies and institutions will increasingly be looking towards mediation and arbitration for handling commercial disputes, which will help improve the business environment and can eventually attract international investment."
The "Pakistan’s ADR Renaissance" event also provided a platform for key figures in the judiciary and ADR fields to share their insights. A particularly notable moment came when the Honourable Mr. Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Senior Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, inaugurated the IBA ADRIC (Alternative Dispute Resolution and International Commercial Arbitration Centre). His inauguration of the centre marked an important milestone for Pakistan’s ADR community, providing a dedicated space for resolving complex commercial disputes and reinforcing the country’s commitment to fostering a robust ADR ecosystem.
The seminar focused on international and regional connectivity in ADR and the role of commercial rule of law in facilitating business transactions across borders. Experts from ADR centres in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and neighbouring countries shared valuable insights into the regional dynamics of dispute resolution. The event provided a much-needed forum for collaborative discussions on strengthening regional ties and ensuring that ADR becomes the preferred method for dispute resolution in South Asia.
Sheraz thanked the team that made the event successful and extended warm regards to Syed Bulent Sohail, Head of Program & Partnerships at IBA-ADRIC, for inaugurating the centre and appreciated the potential that the centre might have in further developing the ADR landscape in the region. Sheraz also thanked Kamran Bilgrami and Syed Bulent Sohail for making the event a resounding success.
The seminar also provided a chance to reconnect with some well-known figures from the ADR community. Sheraz was particularly pleased to see familiar faces such as Grishma Pradhan, Attorney Advisor from the Commercial Law Development Program; Tony Andriotis, Partner and Tokyo Head for International Arbitration at DLA Piper; and Sidharth Jha, who have all played instrumental roles in shaping the global ADR discourse.
Sheraz concluded by saying that indeed, the future of ADR in the region depends on continued collaboration between the countries to create a more connected and efficient ADR framework. He encouraged participants to research innovative ways to leverage ADR to help not only resolve disputes but facilitate economic growth and regional stability.
The event held at IBA Karachi highlighted the increasing appreciation of ADR as an inevitable tool in settling disputes and international trade. This event, in the words of Sheraz and other fellow panellists, brought about the realisation of how ADR would be a major game-changer in the Pakistani legal landscape as well as increase its relationship with neighbouring countries.
As Pakistan continues to strengthen its ADR framework, Mian Sheraz Javaid's input into the discussion is a reminder of the country's growing role in shaping the future of regional and global dispute resolution. His participation in events such as "Pakistan's ADR Renaissance" is a testament to the ongoing evolution of Pakistan's legal community and its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to growth, investment, and regional cooperation.
