Through their agreement, SAC and VIAC will cooperate to promote international arbitration in each other’s jurisdiction and recommend, where relevant, each other’s facilities for the conduct of hearings and meetings. 

The agreement was signed by Andrew Mackenzie, CEO of SAC and Dr Nikolaus Pitkowitz, president of VIAC, at the VIAC CAN Conference in Vienna on 28 February. Mr Mackenzie was introduced by Niamh Leinwather, secretary-general of the VIAC, and both addressed the delegates at the event in respect of the agreement.

Mr Mackenzie said: “We are delighted to have agreed closer ties with VIAC. It comes as VIAC is celebrating its 50th anniversary. So, VIAC has decades of experience in administrating arbitration cases. The Scottish Arbitration Centre is a much younger and smaller institution, only launching our administrative functions in September 2022, so we value this opportunity to share experiences with our friends at VIAC.”

Ms Leinwather said: “VIAC commenced its’ Golden Jubilee celebrations at the VIAC CAN (Community Ambassador Network) Congress on 28 February 2025. On this occasion, we were very pleased to conclude a memorandum of understanding with the Scottish Arbitration Centre.

“VIAC represents a tradition of progress that spans five decades and is very eager to support younger institutions such as the Scottish Arbitration Centre that is at the beginning of its’ journey. The work and dedication that the Scots have invested in their institution and jurisdiction is commendable and destined for success. We look forward to a long and fruitful cooperation.”