Thomas Krümmel’s closing address on Day 2
At the conclusion of Day 2 of IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2026, Thomas Krümmel, Chairman of the International Arbitration Centre (IAC), delivered the closing address.
Opening on a light-hearted note, Thomas remarked that part of him wished the discussions could continue for several more days, while another reminded him that the programme had reached its conclusion and that it was time to formally close the day’s proceedings before the conference continued with its final day.
Looking back on the programme, Thomas observed that, although the second day marked the conclusion of the principal conference sessions, the event itself would continue with Young Lawyers’ Day on the following day, dedicated to the “arbitration leaders of tomorrow”. Referring to the programme for the concluding day, Thomas remarked that it “certainly whets the appetite for more”. He also noted that preparations for IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2027 had already begun.
Reflecting on the response to the conference, Thomas observed that the feedback received from participants encouraged the IAC to continue developing Eurasia Arbitration Week. According to Thomas, the conference owed much to the participation of regional and international colleagues, moderators, speakers and members of the wider arbitration community, who had travelled to Astana to share their knowledge, experience and insights.
Turning to the next edition of the conference, Thomas observed that preparations for IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2027 were already underway. Referring to the feedback received from participants, Thomas remarked that their comments not only encouraged the organisers but also reinforced their commitment to further improving the conference.
According to Thomas, the objective was to make the next edition “even bigger and better”, “more up to date” and “more next level”. Observing that the IAC continually strives to improve both itself and the arbitration centre, Thomas remarked:
“At the IAC, footprints in the sands of time are not made by sitting down, but I would still like to make a modest wish. Please help us do that.”
Inviting delegates to contribute to the continued development of the conference, Thomas requested participants to return for IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2027 and encouraged them to share feedback and suggestions that could help make the next edition even better.
Reflecting on the significance of Eurasia Arbitration Week, Thomas observed that the event provides important international validation for the International Arbitration Centre. According to Thomas, such participation increases the visibility of the International Arbitration Centre and confirms its reputation within the international alternative dispute resolution community. He remarked:
“If eminent professionals, experts, legal practitioners, members of the worldwide legal community care to come here and share their time, thoughts and expertise with us, this further increases the visibility of the International Arbitration Centre at the IAC in Astana, Kazakhstan, on the global map of alternative dispute resolution.”
According to Thomas, such participation confirms the International Arbitration Centre’s reputation as a serious institution for dispute resolution in Kazakhstan, Eurasia, Central Asia and internationally.
Turning to acknowledgements, Thomas thanked the conference’s institutional partners, and expressed appreciation to the conference’s sponsors, institutional supporters, speakers, moderators and panellists for contributing to the success of the event.
Offering special thanks to Christopher Campbell-Holt OBE, Registrar and Chief Executive of the AIFC Court and IAC, Thomas acknowledged his “untiring efforts” in organising the conference. He also recognised the work of the AIFC Court and IAC staff, particularly the operations and events teams, thanking them for ensuring the smooth conduct of Eurasia Arbitration Week. As a token of appreciation, Thomas invited representatives of the organising team to the stage and presented them with flowers on behalf of the institution.
Concluding the second day, Thomas thanked participants for attending IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2026 and wished them safe travels. Inviting delegates to return for the next edition of the conference, he expressed the hope that they would carry with them “the proud, open to the world and simply unique spirit of Kazakhstan and of the International Arbitration Centre at the AIFC.”
Zmarak Khan’s closing remarks at the end of the final day
Following the conclusion of the principal conference sessions, IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2026 continued with Young Lawyers’ Day, bringing the three-day programme to its close. Delivering the concluding address on the final day, Zmarak Khan, Deputy Chief Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, U.S. Department of Commerce, reflected on the broader significance of the programme and the role of legal education in preparing the next generation of arbitration practitioners.
Zmarak commended the International Arbitration Centre for creating what he described as a vibrant platform for ADR education. He observed that the IAC functions not only as a dispute-resolution institution but also as an educational hub that provides students and practitioners with opportunities for training, networking, conferences and international exposure.
Encouraging participants to pursue careers driven by genuine intellectual curiosity, Zmarak remarked that professional satisfaction comes from discovering work that provides purpose rather than merely anticipating weekends or holidays. He urged students to remain open to new opportunities and actively engage with practitioners across jurisdictions.
Turning to legal education, Zmarak underscored the transformative role of experiential learning through ADR clinics, moot courts and practical simulations. According to Zmarak, such initiatives help shift legal education away from rote memorisation towards practical problem-solving.
Concluding his remarks, Zmarak expressed gratitude to the IAC, partner universities, international law firms, arbitration institutions and collaborators for supporting the programme. He also acknowledged the contributions of speakers, participants, young professionals and interns, observing that their continued commitment and collaboration have enabled the programme to reach legal communities across jurisdictions.
Read other reports from IAC Eurasia Arbitration Week 2026:
