Training - Cairo, Egypt
On February 5-7, 2007, the first domestic training took place in Cairo, Egypt. This three-day Training for International Commercial Mediators and Arbitrators was conducted entirely in English and generously hosted by the Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where all technical equipment was provided
The course was especially designed for experienced Egyptian business lawyers interested in specializing in "Alternative Dispute Resolution" (ADR), with particular reference to international commercial disputes spanning the two shores of the Mediterranean. With the intention of creating a professional context in which the trainees could be closely assisted by the trainers, the session was limited to 25 highly qualified participants selected using criteria fixed by the European Commission.
The greater part of the course focused on mediation skills and techniques, with a view to training a group of professionals who could be called in to facilitate as neutrals the amicable resolution of disputes between EU and MEDA parties. Introductory remarks were given by Diego Mellado (Counsellor Head of Section, Economic Reform Section - EU) and followed by a brief presentation by representatives of the Diplomatic Institute. The study and practical exercise of mediation were examined by instructors Giuseppe De Palo (President of ADR Center and Project Team Leader), and Manon Schonewille (President of ACB Mediation, the Netherlands). After submitting a final examination to the trainees, the course ended with a half-hour debate and a brief ceremony during which certificates of participation and a CD ROM complete with training materials were distributed to attendees. The participants informed the Project Team that they were grateful to have had the opportunity to attend this exciting course, they would be interested in being involved in future project initiatives, and would be happy to help promote other project events in Egypt.
For further information, please see the draft training agenda.