May 29, 2025. The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and the Madrid International Arbitration Center - Ibero-American Arbitration Center (CIAM-CIAR) signed a cooperation agreement today to support the use of arbitration, conciliation, mediation, and other alternative methods for resolving international investment disputes.

Martina Polasek, Secretary-General of ICSID, and José María Alonso, President of CIAM-CIAR, signed the agreement in Madrid. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration on public outreach regarding dispute resolution procedures, the exchange of information on new trends and technologies, and support for meetings or proceedings administered by ICSID or CIAM-CIAR. 

The agreement provides parties involved in ICSID proceedings with the option to hold hearings at CIAM-CIAR's facilities in Madrid, in accordance with Article 63 of the ICSID Convention.

“ICSID and CIAM-CIAR share the goal of delivering efficient and high-quality services. Equally important, both of our institutions understand that the broader use of arbitration, mediation, and alternative methods of dispute resolution -through fair and expeditious case proceedings- lends confidence and stability to international investment and trade,” said Ms. Polasek.

“This agreement with ICSID represents a firm step toward long-term institutional collaboration. It is not merely about sharing physical facilities, but about combining strengths in academic activities, joint publications, knowledge exchange, and global outreach. It reflects a mutual recognition between institutions committed to excellence in international dispute resolution,” said Mr. Alonso.