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