October 24, 1997, Geneva, Switzerland
Closing Remarks
Mr. Michael Hoellering
President, International Federation of Commercial Arbitration Institutions (IFCAI)
General Counsel, American Arbitration Association (AAA)
(New York, United States Of America)
Time moves rather quickly and we find ourselves at the end of yet another successful IFCAI Conference. The discussions here in Geneva have been wide ranging and most informative, touching on many important aspects of administrated arbitration. I know that they were of great value to the institutions, and trust to each and every one of you as well.
We leave WIPO with a host of new insights, a better picture of the competitive nature of the arbitration market, yet keenly aware of the need for institutional cooperation to advance further the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the international arbitration process. You will be interested that to that end, the IFCAI, at its Assembly yesterday, has agreed to conduct regular meetings of its institutional members to share their experiences, and matters of common concern relating to the day to day administration of international arbitration proceedings. We are confident that these consultations will serve to further promote and facilitate the worldwide use of arbitration, to the satisfaction of the user community.
It remains for me to thank our speakers, chairmen and each of you for contributing in so many ways to this informative stimulating day. I wish especially to thank Francis Gurry and his colleagues, and WIPO for the splendid hospitality and seamless conference arrangements.
Finally, I should tell you that the Federations next Biennial Conference in 1999 will be held in New York City, with the American Arbitration Association serving as host organization. We very much look forward to seeing and welcoming you there.