The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (Qicca) at Qatar Chamber said yesterday that all of its activities will run through an online system as a commitment to the instructions of the Ministry of Public Health’s initiatives against the novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
In press statement, Qicca board member for International Relations Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali al-Thani said he received many new arbitration proceedings this April. He noted that Qicca will follow up other files, such as responding to inquiries and contacting with parties to settle the existing arbitration proceedings the within the specified time.
He noted that Qicca has been using modern technologies, such as receiving new arbitration applications online through e-mails and conducting remote arbitration sessions.
Sheikh Thani also said Qicca is using modern applications to facilitate arbitration services with those working with the centre from businesses, transport companies, contractors, insurance, and national and foreign law offices.
He pointed out that remote communication through video conference matched legal requirements. He affirmed that all proceedings are being conducted through closed TV channels that ensure confidence, maintain corporate trade secrets, and allow for deliberation among arbitration members before issuing the final arbitration award.
Sheikh Thani said he hopes that the Covid-19 pandemic “would end soon so that economic activity would return to its usual pace.”
“Qicca would benefit from this crisis by using electronic communication channels and modern technology applications to record arbitration cases, select arbitrators, form the arbitral tribunal, conduct hearings, exchange notes, make pleadings, and finally issue and send the final award to all parties electronically,” he added.
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