Deir Ezzor, Eastern Syria, (SANA)- Governor of Deir Ezzor Province Hussein Arnous said the most important among investing basics is the legal and legislative environment which regulates the relationship between the investor and other parties concerned. Arnous was speaking before the 21st Session on Preparation of Arab Arbitrators under the title "Arbitration and Investment" held on Thursday in Deir Ezzor, eastern Syria. The meeting was organized by Deir Ezzor Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris and the Arab Chamber for Reconciliation and Arbitration. "Arbitration complements judicial system. It is not an alternative to it," said Arnous, adding that arbitration is especially significant as it ensures quick and easy procedures for resolving disputes. He said the Syrian government has recently issued a number of legislations and laws with the aim to develop the legal and regulatory frameworks for investment. Over 11 arbitration centers have been given licenses so far as part of the government's plan to boost arbitration process. Chairman of the Arab Chamber for Conciliation and Arbitration Ibrahim Ahmad al-Ibrahim said creating an appropriate atmosphere for investment needs such an alternative method as arbitration as it involves a neutral party to resolve investment disputes and guarantee the rights of capital owners when it is sometimes difficult to go to court. Director of ICC Office for Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa Sami Hawarbi spoke of the importance of arbitration decisions as being final and binding, contrary to those reached in mediation or by certain courts. Arbitration decisions are also recognized all over the world according to the New York Convention of 1958 signed by 140 countries.

H. Said /Idelbi