In the broader context of the upcoming COP and the continued implementation of the Paris Agreement, the imperative for profound understanding and multifaceted viewpoints takes center stage. As the international pulse quickens in its commitment to less carbon emissions and towards a future powered by sustainable, eco-friendly energy solutions, the wealth of expertise within the MENA region becomes exceedingly pertinent. This pivotal juncture accentuates the role of energy not just as a regional asset but as a cornerstone for both the global industry and the intricate domain of international arbitration. Our panel will delve into this intricate interplay, dissecting the dynamics of energy transition in the MENA landscape and its resonating impact on global environmental objectives and arbitration discourse.
#YoungITATalks Online is a series of virtual events presented around the world, featuring talks, workshops or interviews that cover a wide range of subjects relating to arbitration. The #YoungITATalks series is designed for education, conversation and sharing knowledge and experiences among young practitioners.
About the Speakers
Ibrahim Ati, Moderator
New York City Bar Association, EU
Ibrahim Ati is dual-educated legal professional with training in both civil and common law systems, having passed the New York Bar and graduated with an LL.M. in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the University of Southern California. Part of Young California Arbitration' steering committee, he is also one of the youngest members on the NY City Bar Association's Arbitration and Professional Discipline Committee. In addition to serving as Vice-Chair in the American Bar Association, Ibrahim Ati aspires to be among the new generation of leading international arbitrators, aiming to infuse the field with fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.
Jessica Beess und Chrostin, Panelist
King & Spalding
New York and London
Jessica Beess und Chrostin is a partner at King & Spalding, where she expertly navigates complex international dispute resolution. Specializing in the energy and construction sectors, her practice is at the forefront of high-stakes commercial, investor-state, and global award enforcement disputes. Renowned for her strategic approach, Jessica crafts tailored solutions that align with her clients' business objectives, ensuring exceptional legal representation. Her extensive experience across major arbitral forums like the ICC, ICSID, and LCIA, positions her as a leading advocate in the field, adept at steering intricate disputes from inception to resolution. Particularly notable is her role as a leading counsel in the Middle East, marking her as a pivotal figure in the landscape of international arbitration.
Jalal El Ahdab
Bird & Bird
Paris, France
Jalal El Ahdab, partner at Bird & Bird, commands the Dispute Resolution Group in Paris and is an integral part of the UAE dispute resolution department. As a preeminent figure in international dispute resolution, Mr. El Ahdab has skillfully navigated over 250 complex cases across vital sectors such as aerospace, energy, and telecommunications. His profound expertise, particularly in the MENA region, is further enriched by his publications and professional Bar qualifications from Beirut, New York, and Paris, along with his fluency in Arabic.
In addition to his role as one of the premier arbitrators in the MENA region, Mr. El Ahdab's leadership in the CiArb European Branch and his distinguished academic credentials, including a PhD, further accentuate his standing in the field of international arbitration. With more than two decades of exemplary practice, his knowledge of the Middle East makes his participation in the panel extremely valuable.
Chérine Ftouki, Panelist
Independent Consultant (International Dispute Resolution & Public International Law Advisory)
London, UK
Chérine Ftouki, is an Independent Consultant in International Dispute Resolution and Public International Law Advisory, she formerly served as Global International Arbitration Specialist at Mayer Brown.
Her expertise, flourished in renowned law firms, where she has earned a reputation as a reliable specialist in advising on arbitration and providing key knowledge on complex disputes within the energy, maritime, infrastructure, and resources sectors. Her strength lies in combining all aspects of Public International Law knowledge with commercial awareness.
Chérine has made substantial contributions to projects and disputes within the construction and energy sectors across the Middle East, LATAM, and the US. Engaging with a broad range of stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and corporations, she specifically focuses on energy transition and governmental incentives for green energy.
She spearheads initiatives and research on Environmental, Climate Change, and Natural Resources Dispute Resolution. Particularly noteworthy are her leading roles in research projects related to the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) and matters involving sovereign, diplomatic privilege, and immunity in Interstate and Investor-state arbitrations.
Mohamed S. Abdel Wahab, Panelist
Zulficar & Partners Law Firm
Cairo, Egypt
Professor Dr. Mohamed S. Abdel Wahab is certainly one of the most distinguished lawyers and arbitrators in the Arab world. A few of his very notable and numerous roles include representing Egypt at UNCITRAL, his upcoming presidency of the CIArb in 2025, and his leadership as the Dean of the Africa Arbitration Academy. As the founder of the leading MENA firm Zulficar & Partners, his extensive experience and profound understanding of the nuances of international arbitration, particularly in the MENA and African regions, are unique. His keynote address promises to offer a depth of perspective.