ISLAMABAD:Federal Minister Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar on Wednesday emphasized the importance of mediation and said that it can deliver justice timely and reduce burden on courts.
He stated this while gracing the closing session of a two-day training on Mediation at Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Service organized by he International Mediation & Arbitration Centre (IMAC), Ministry of Law and Justice.
The training brought together legal professionals, civil servants, and representatives from various ministries and regulatory authorities, aiming to enhance practical mediation skills and promote the effective use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in Pakistan.
Through interactive sessions, participants were engaged in negotiation techniques, structured mediation processes, and case-based simulations designed to build real-world competency.
The closing ceremony was graced by Azam Nazeer Tarar, who highlighted the growing burden of pending cases in courts and the resulting delays in access to justice.
He underscored mediation as a practical, efficient, and cost-effective solution, noting that disputes resolved through mediation can often be concluded within weeks rather than years.
He emphasized that mediation not only reduces pressure on the judicial system but also preserves commercial and professional relationships.
The Minister further stressed that confidentiality remains a cornerstone of mediation, enhancing trust between parties and encouraging amicable settlements.
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing ADR at the international level, including its signing of the Singapore Convention on Mediation and its support for emerging global mediation frameworks.
Referring to the establishment of IMAC in December 2024, he described it as a significant institutional milestone, serving as a national platform for capacity building, policy development, and alignment with international best practices.
He appreciated IMAC’s role in bridging stakeholders across government, judiciary, academia, and the legal community, and acknowledged its ongoing efforts in conducting trainings nationwide and developing a pool of skilled mediators.
Sharing the participants’ perspective, Muhammad Zahid Commissioner Inland Revenue, noted that the training provided a valuable and enriching learning experience.
He highlighted that the programme equipped participants with practical mediation skills and commended IMAC for delivering an engaging and professionally structured training.
From the trainers’ perspective, Dr. Atta ur Rehman, Lead Trainer, observed that mediation and ADR have long existed within society through traditional practices.
He emphasized that formal recognition and institutionalization of these mechanisms would significantly contribute to reducing the burden on the judicial system.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Aisha Rasool, Senior Consultant, Ministry of Law and Justice and Project Director IMAC. She expressed gratitude to the Minister for his presence and continued support for ADR initiatives.
She further appreciated the contributions of the trainers for delivering high-quality sessions and commended the participants for their active engagement. The role of the media in promoting awareness of mediation was also acknowledged, along with the dedicated efforts of the IMAC team in organizing the programme.
The training concluded with the distribution of certificates and a renewed commitment to strengthening mediation practices and advancing ADR reforms in Pakistan.