AMCA Advances International Mediation Expertise Through SIMC-Led Training Programme

On 27–28 June, the Director of the Arbitration and Mediation Center of Armenia (AMCA), together with AMCA mediators, participated in an intensive two-day mediation training programme delivered by the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC). The programme was organized with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Center for Legislation Development Foundation of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia. The training was led by George Lim SC and Wee Meng Chuan, who shared their extensive expertise and practical experience in international commercial mediation.

The training marks another important step in strengthening Armenia's mediation ecosystem and enhancing the capacity of professionals engaged in alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Bringing together international expertise and local practitioners, the programme focused on equipping participants with practical skills and globally recognized approaches to resolving commercial disputes.

Throughout the two-day programme, participants explored key aspects of modern mediation practice, including cross-border commercial mediation, interest-based negotiation, effective communication techniques, and mediation strategies. The highly interactive format combined expert-led discussions with practical simulations and role-play exercises, allowing participants to apply international best practices to real-life dispute resolution scenarios.

The programme was officially opened by Deputy Minister of Justice of the Republic of Armenia, Tigran Dadunts, who emphasized that the development of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms is one of the key priorities of Armenia's judicial and legal reform strategy. In his remarks, he highlighted the Government's commitment to building a more accessible, efficient, and people-centered justice system.

The Deputy Minister also noted that discussions are currently underway regarding Armenia's ratification of the Singapore Convention on Mediation. Ratification of the Convention would represent a significant milestone for Armenia by strengthening the enforceability of international mediated settlement agreements, enhancing investor confidence, and further integrating the country into the global commercial dispute resolution framework.

Beyond the technical training, the programme also provided an opportunity for strategic discussions on future cooperation between AMCA and its international partners.

This training represents the first phase of a broader professional development programme. A second phase is scheduled to commence in October, after which participants will have the opportunity to obtain professional certification from the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC), further strengthening the quality and international recognition of mediation practice in Armenia.