Doha: A seminar on ‘Energy Dispute Resolution’ organised by Center for Energy and Sustainability Law at Qatar University’s College of Law addressed recent developments and challenges in energy dispute resolution at national and international levels.
It was the first in a series of forums to provide tips to oil and gas professionals on making an informed choice on dispute resolution, and the importance of a multi-tier approach to resolving disputes.
The seminar was attended by leading legal and commercial organisations and companies, including Sheikh Fahad Al Thani from Qatar Chamber of Commerce; Sheikh Hamad bin Saoud Al Thani from Qatar Woqod Fuel; Sheikh Thani Al Thani from Qatari Lawyers Association, Dr Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi, Dean of the college; Dr Mohammed Alramhi, Director of the centre, faculty and students from QU colleges and departments. The event was endorsed by Association of International Petroleum Negotiators.
Dr Alramhi opened the event which featured presentations by panellists, including Dr Francis Botchway, Associate Dean for Research at the college; Victor P Leginsky, Dubai-based Chartered Arbitrator and Certified Arbitraries Mediator; and Salman Mahmood, Partner, Doha-based law firm Sultan Al Abdulla & Partners.
He said: “The topic under discussion is critical for the oil and gas industry. The centre is well-placed to present timely issues and bring together experts from industry and academia to advance dialogue and put forward recommendations that can be successfully implemented. This underlines the centre’s commitment to being a key partner in contributing to goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and development strategies.”
Dr Botchway used a case law to illustrate jurisdictional and enforcement tensions and conflicts between national courts and international arbitral tribunals and highlighted areas where such tensions can be manifested under Qatari law.
He said the first step to dispute resolution is dispute avoidance which will involve incorporating dispute management units or boards into contracts for natural resource investment, construction and long gestation projects.
Mahmood outlined contractual areas and avenues open for energy disputes, and said in order for the arbitration clause in a contract to be effective under Qatari law, it is necessary that parties must authorise their signatories to agree to arbitrate disputes.
The Peninsula
