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Police officers walk past the Supreme Court of Pakistan building in Islamabad, Pakistan April 6, 2022. REUTERS
ISLAMABAD:
Supreme Court Justice Shahid Waheed has emphasized that Pakistan’s economic stability and sustainable development depend on effective alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms and meaningful dialogue.
Addressing the concluding session of an international conference held on Friday on promoting investment through ADR, Justice Waheed said investors’ confidence requires a clear message that Pakistan’s judiciary stands with national economic stability and growth. He noted that the Supreme Court of Pakistan has introduced an improved commercial dispute resolution framework, which is expected to support investment and reduce protracted litigation.
Justice Waheed also highlighted that Islamic teachings, particularly principles of the Holy Quran, provide guidance for peaceful conflict resolution which can contribute to social harmony and economic prosperity. He emphasized that continued legal reforms and constructive dialogue are essential for Pakistan’s long-term economic development.
Speaking as the guest of honour, Bilal Azhar Kiani, Minister of State for Finance and Railways said that backlog in the courts is adversely affecting government policies and development projects. He announced recent reforms within the FBR aimed at ensuring faster and fairer resolution of tax disputes.
Under the new mechanism, a committee headed by a retired High Court judge will hear tax-related cases. The committee will include representatives of both taxpayers and tax authorities. If a taxpayer accepts the committee’s decision, pending legal challenges will be withdrawn and the FBR will reciprocate by withdrawing its own cases, helping to reduce unnecessary litigation.
