IOMed hosts first Global Mediation Summit in HK

已複製連結

The Hong Kong-based International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) hosted its first Global Mediation Summit today.

The summit was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Chief Executive John Lee, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam and Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong Cui Jianchun were among those in attendance. 

International mediation experts, policymakers, and leaders from over 60 countries and regions also participated. 

The summit explored the development of mediation in international dispute resolution. 

In his address, John Lee noted that the number of signatories to the Mediation Court Convention had increased from 37 to 41, and Beijing supports Hong Kong's role in mediating international disputes.

In his speech, John Lee said: "In these perilous times, when global affairs have become increasingly complex and volatile, the pursuit of peace – and peaceful resolutions – is imperative. Which makes today's Summit especially timely."

"And it is a great pleasure to see more than 400 leaders, policymakers and distinguished professionals from 48 countries and regions gathered, here in Hong Kong, to share their invaluable experience and insights on international mediation."

"Hong Kong has long supported mediation. Mediation echoes concord and coexistence, creating co-operation where there was conflict. Concord and coexistence are values deeply rooted in Chinese culture. They are indispensable for resolving disputes and restoring trust. They preserve relationships, encouraging meaningful co-operation between disputing parties."

"Hong Kong is committed to becoming a global mediation capital. And we are well-positioned to do so. Under "one country, two systems", Hong Kong is a thriving hub for international finance, shipping and trade. We benefit from our country's strong support and the opportunities it gives us, while maintaining extensive international connectivity as a world city."

"Indeed, the recent Global Financial Centres Index ranked Hong Kong third, globally, and first in "fintech offerings", "banking", "finance" and "insurance", while claiming second place in "investment management". And we topped the entire Asia-Pacific region."

"Our status as a leading financial centre and global investment hub is reinforced by our robust rule of law and legal system, the cornerstone of our longstanding success."

"Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country. And our legal professionals are internationally acknowledged for their professionalism and integrity."

"And now, as IOMed's headquarters, Hong Kong is at the very heart of global dispute resolution and its promising future. The National 15th Five-Year Plan, I'm pleased to note, has expressed support to IOMed. That ensures that Hong Kong will play a key role in the peaceful resolution of disputes by mediation, long down the road."

"And I can assure you that Hong Kong will continue to build on our partnership with the International Organization for Mediation. Together, we will work to develop Hong Kong as a global mediation centre. And we invite governments, companies, investors and others to make optimal use of the mediation services provided by IOMed, right here in Hong Kong."

"Our commitment to mediation, locally and globally, is clear in the five-day Mediation Week programme that ends today with this Summit. Mediation Week events spotlighted disputes related to schools, sports, neighbourhoods and the elderly. The goal in each case was to apply mediation structure and skills to achieve peaceful and rational solutions to our problems."