Addressing an audience of more than 200 international delegates, including arbitrators, practitioners, academics, in-house counsel and business leaders from across the globe, Stavros Pavlou highlighted the growing importance of Cyprus as an emerging centre for international dispute resolution and reflected on the remarkable growth of the conference over the years.

In his remarks, he noted that this year’s edition achieved the highest attendance in the history of the conference, reinforcing the increasing international recognition and reputation of Cyprus Arbitration Day as a leading arbitration forum.

The welcome address focused on the rapidly evolving landscape of international arbitration and the challenges currently shaping the field, including:

• geopolitical tensions and sanctions
• technological transformation and AI
• enforcement challenges
• sophisticated fraud structures
• tensions between arbitration and EU law

Stavros Pavlou emphasised that arbitration continues to serve as one of the few truly international systems of justice, built on trust, neutrality, due process and the rule of law. He further underlined the importance of maintaining the legitimacy and adaptability of arbitration in an increasingly fragmented global environment.

Particular emphasis was also placed on the value of professional interaction and international collaboration fostered through conferences such as Cyprus Arbitration Day 2026, noting that many of the most valuable discussions and professional relationships are formed beyond the formal panel sessions.

The address also highlighted Cyprus’ strategic position as a regional dispute resolution hub, combining common law foundations, an internationally oriented legal system and extensive experience in cross-border disputes.

The conference then proceeded with the opening keynote speech by Kevin Nash, Director General of the London Court of International Arbitration, who was introduced by Stavros Pavlou.

Patrikios Legal is proudly represented at this year’s conference by:

• Stavros Pavlou, Executive Chairman and CAD Co-Chair
• Chrysostomos Nicolaou, Senior Partner-Head of Litigation
• Marina Hadjisoteriou, Partner-Head of International Disputes
• Eleni Dionysiou, Senior Associate and CAD speaker
• Salomi Stavrou, Associate
• Marilia Pavlou, Trainee Lawyer

Thank you to our team for successfully representing us!

The 4th edition of Cyprus Arbitration Day 2026 continues with a series of high-level discussions and panels addressing the future of international arbitration in a rapidly changing world.