In the face of the fast spread of the COVID-19 outbreak worldwide, China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) has closely followed the development of the pandemic and actively communicated with and shared China’s effective prevention and control measures with relevant international arbitration institutions and organizations. CIETAC has recently sent letters of sympathy to nearly 30 international arbitration institutions and organizations and donated anti-epidemic goods to them, demonstrating China’s sense of responsibility in the global cooperation in fighting the pandemic.

Prompt replies have been received from arbitration institutions in many countries and from a number of international arbitration organizations.

ICC International Court of Arbitration President Alexis Mourre expressed gratitude in his reply and hoped to strengthen cooperation after the epidemic to promote international commercial arbitration.

“We are moved by CIETAC’s kindness and generosity, and highly appreciate the solidarity expressed,” replied Annette Magnusson, Secretary General of Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce.

“Vienna is facing a severe shortage of anti-epidemic materials. We are extremely grateful to CIETAC for its kindness and assistance,” said Vienna International Arbitral Centre President Günther J. Horvath.

Korean Commercial Arbitration Board Director Heehwan Kwon thanked CIETAC for its generous assistance and hoped that the two parties can have better cooperation opportunities after the crisis is over.

Dirk De Meulemeester, President of the Belgian Centre for Arbitration and Mediation, expressed confidence in working together to overcome the pandemic.

“CIETAC’s generosity, at this difficult time, warms our hearts and inspires how we can unite as one to fight the pandemic,” said Rana Sajjad, President of Pakistan’s Center for International Investment and Commercial Arbitration.

In February this year, a number of international arbitration institutions sent letters of sympathy to CIETAC, expressing their concern and support for China's fight against COVID-19. The epidemic respects no borders. Strengthening international solidarity and cooperation is the most powerful weapon to overcome the pandemic. CIETAC will continue to strengthen international cooperation in the fight against the pandemic, provide assistance within its capacity, and support the international arbitration community in combating the pandemic.