Baku brings together global legal minds to shape future of arbitration PHOTO

At the international ceremony marking the opening of the Baku Arbitration Centre, leading global and national figures underlined the vital role of arbitration in ensuring justice, promoting peace, and supporting sustainable development.

Addressing the event, former President of the European Council and former Prime Minister of Belgium Charles Michel highlighted that arbitration remains the oldest and most effective form of dispute resolution worldwide, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

“Even when interests collide, the law must prevail above all,” Michel stated.

Tracing the origins of arbitration back to Ancient Greece, Michel emphasized its enduring relevance in the modern world: “This activity is founded on the rule of law. An arbitrator is a representative of peace. Arbitration offers parties a legitimate and constructive path to resolve disputes. Consent lies at the heart of arbitration.”

Following Michel’s remarks, the Chairman of the Supreme Court of Azerbaijan, Inam Karimov, stressed that arbitration has become an essential component of the country’s ongoing development and judicial modernization.

“Justice in a democratic society is not confined to a single place or institution,” Karimov said, noting that courts and arbitration bodies serve as partners rather than competitors in the pursuit of fairness. “Each fulfills its own role, yet their shared mission is to ensure the fair resolution of disputes and the effective protection of rights. Today, Azerbaijan stands as a leading economy in the region, defined by stability, vision, and innovation.”

Karimov pointed out that as Azerbaijan’s economy continues to grow, its business and investment relations are becoming increasingly sophisticated. “Therefore, arbitration has become a necessity for Azerbaijan’s progress,” he explained. “It allows disputes to be settled fairly, swiftly, and in accordance with contractual obligations. It strengthens investor confidence, supports sustainable development, and fosters international cooperation.”

He also emphasized Azerbaijan’s adherence to key international agreements that promote arbitration, including the 1958 New York Convention. However, Karimov cautioned that signing conventions alone is not sufficient. “For arbitration to function effectively, we need strong institutions and competent judges who apply the law consistently and conscientiously,” he concluded.

An international conference marking the inauguration of the Baku Arbitration Centre is currently underway in the Azerbaijani capital, bringing together more than 600 participants, including over 70 prominent experts, legal practitioners, and government officials from around the world.

The event aims to foster the exchange of expertise among arbitration professionals from diverse regions, enhance collaboration between the public and private legal sectors, and provide a dynamic platform for deliberating on the future development of Azerbaijan’s arbitration landscape.

Kamalia Mehtiyeva, President of Baku Arbitration Centre and Chair of the Azerbaijan Arbitration Association, underscored in her remarks to the media the significance of the judicial and legal reforms currently underway in Azerbaijan, noting their essential role in strengthening the country’s justice system and aligning it with international standards.

By Vafa Guliyeva