QICDRC concludes ‘5th Full Meeting of the Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts’

More than 50 international jurisdictions attended the two-day meeting, demonstrating a strong commitment to collaboration and the sharing of best practices among commercial courts. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam

The Honourable James Allsop AC, former Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia, delivered a keynote address, which was among the highlights of the conclusion of the ‘5th Full Meeting of the Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC)’ held at Qatar University Sunday.

Titled ‘The Spirit of the Judicial Task and the Importance of International Judicial Dialogue’, Allsop’s lecture gathered more than 200 guests. More than 50 international jurisdictions attended the two-day meeting, demonstrating a strong commitment to collaboration and the sharing of best practices among commercial courts.

The ‘5th Full Meeting of the Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC)’ served as an invaluable opportunity for representatives from courts across the globe to gather, exchange ideas, and discuss strategies for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of commercial dispute resolution.

The meeting’s first day was highlighted by an official dinner hosted by the Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) at the Museum of Islamic Art, with HE the Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ibrahim bin Ali al-Mohannadi welcoming all the delegates.

Sir William Blair, chairman of QFC Regulatory Tribunal, said: “Let us remember that our shared commitment to excellence in commercial court practices not only benefits our respective jurisdictions but also contributes to a global environment of stability, prosperity, and the rule of law.”

QICDRC CEO Faisal Rashid al-Sahouti said: “QICDRC is pleased to have concluded the ‘5th Full Meeting of the Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts’ and is committed to fostering international collaboration and sharing best practices in commercial dispute resolution. We are honoured to have welcomed all the representatives to Qatar and look forward to seeing the results of our productive discussions benefit businesses and markets worldwide.”

Judge Khalid bin Ali al-Obaidly, president of the Investment and Trade Court, said: “The Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts was an opportunity for intellectual exchange and common judicial experiences, and I would like to emphasise the important role that this forum plays in enhancing international cooperation between commercial courts.

“These gatherings contribute to refining and developing judicial systems, increasing the efficiency of procedures, and speeding up the resolution of cases, benefiting the investment and commercial environment not only in Qatar but also globally.”

He added: “Furthermore, I extend a warm welcome to the delegations visiting the headquarters of the Investment and Trade Court. This visit fosters transparency and opens avenues for enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding. I am optimistic that this visit will deepen relations among judges and experts, fostering a more collaborative environment characterised by mutual respect and a shared commitment to elevating the standards of commercial and investment justice.”