Advancing Sri Lanka’s role in regional arbitration

SLNAC Board Member Prof. Chitra Weddikkara on “Emerging Challenges and Corresponding Solutions in Dispute Resolution” at the event 

 Meeting with the regional correspondents at the SCO Arbitration Forum

• SLNAC at SCO Arbitration Forum 2025 by CIETAC:

The Sri Lanka National Arbitration Centre (SLNAC) represented the nation at the prestigious SCO Arbitration Forum recently, hosted by the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC). 

SLNAC Board Member Professor Chitra Weddikkara attended the forum as Sri Lanka’s delegate and featured speaker, reinforcing the country’s growing role in international legal collaboration and cross-border dispute resolution. As one of South Asia’s longest-standing arbitral institutions, SLNAC was invited in recognition of its leadership and legacy since 1985. The Centre continues to serve as a pivotal platform for regional legal cooperation by leveraging Sri Lanka’s strategic location, trusted legal heritage, and professional credibility. 

Held under the auspices of CIETAC, the forum convened leading arbitration institutions and legal experts from 32 countries connected to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by the Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013. SLNAC’s participation underscores Sri Lanka’s strategic role in advancing regional integration through effective alternative dispute resolution (ADR) frameworks. 

Professor Chitra Weddikkara, a Chartered Architect, Quantity Surveyor, and experienced Arbitrator, addressed the forum on “Artificial Intelligence in Dispute Resolution for the Global Construction Industry.” Her presentation explored the application of AI-driven tools to resolve construction disputes in emerging construction markets, i.e. an industry frequently challenged by project delays, cost overruns, and contractual complexity. As emerging markets increasingly adopt digital solutions, AI offers opportunities to streamline arbitration by enhancing document review, pattern recognition, and predictive analytics. 

However, she also addressed critical challenges such as data security, algorithmic accountability, and the need for human oversight to preserve fairness and neutrality in arbitration proceedings. “Representing Sri Lanka at the CIETAC Forum is an honour and a responsibility. It affirms our belief that arbitration must evolve with the region’s growing needs while embracing innovation, neutrality, and trust. SLNAC remains committed to ensuring that Sri Lanka continues to be recognised as a credible and collaborative hub for regional dispute resolution,” said Professor Weddikkara.

SLNAC’s presence at the forum also strengthens Sri Lanka’s positioning as a neutral and accessible venue for international arbitration, thereby bolstering regional trade relations. “This engagement is an opportunity for Sri Lanka to take its seat at the global arbitration table and highlights SLNAC’s credibility,” noted SLNAC Chief Executive Officer Amali Fernando. “We are proud to contribute our expertise to the regional dialogue and remain committed to building partnerships that support our legal and business communities.” 

SLNAC Chairman Hiran de Alwis also extended his congratulations and expressed hopes for closer ties with CIETAC in strengthening regional cooperation.

With a legacy grounded in trust and a future focused on innovation, SLNAC continues to drive Sri Lanka’s participation in regional arbitration efforts, positioning Sri Lanka as a centre of legal excellence across Asia.