Secretary for Justice Paul Lam said the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) will hold its first high-level summit next week.

The event, which will focus on dispute resolution, marks a major milestone for the organisation, which began operations just last year.

Speaking on a radio programme, Lam said the biennial Mediation Week will run from May 4 to 7, followed by the first-ever Global Mediation Summit, hosted by IOMed on May 8 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to Lam, this summit represents the organisation’s first high-level meeting since its launch.

Chief Executive John Lee is expected to attend, and a number of experienced, influential figures have been invited to speak on the latest developments in international, commercial and investment mediation.

Over 1,000 participants from more than 60 countries have already registered, either to attend in person or join online.

Lam also shared his hope that mediation culture would serve not only nations and large commercial institutions but also the public.

"Regarding the mediation week schedule, the first four days will be more focused on people's livelihood and down-to-earth matters, centred on our local Hong Kong context – regardless of age group or type," he said.

"Because what I really want to say is that the culture of mediation needs to be very down to earth.

"While there should be high-level international elements, mediation is not only about serving between nations, nor only about serving large commercial institutions – it must also help the general public."

Lam expressed confidence that the establishment of IOMed in Hong Kong would create a "magnet effect" that attracted a wider range of international organisations to the city for talent exchanges.

He also revealed that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank planned to set up an office in Hong Kong, with progress described as good and hopes high for the matter to be finalised within this year.

Additionally, the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law is expected to open its Asia-Pacific liaison office in Hong Kong by the end of 2026.



Edited by Thomas McAlinden