International Law

International law is a body of laws that governs the relationships between countries (Public International Law) and between persons or entities located in different countries (Private International Law).

Trade and investment transactions that transcend national boundaries are often affected by issues of public international law, which deals with the relations between and among nation states.

Issues of public international law tend to be more difficult to anticipate, and more subtle and complex to resolve, than issues of private law. Where such an issue involves a conflict between a private party and a national sovereign, the private party can encounter substantial barriers to vindicating its rights, and may often need to resort to unconventional or creative vehicles for protecting its interests.

If you are a person or business involved in international business transactions, ULC can provide a wealth of experience and knowledge that will assist in your pursuit of financial growth and stability. ULC lawyers are well versed in public international law and in the techniques of enforcing it. Our experience is extensive and diverse.

Issues of public international law arise in many of the most significant transactions and investments. These include the privatization of state-owned enterprises, infrastructure development programs, development financed on a project basis, sovereign financing or debt restructuring, and natural resource development projects. ULC also assists clients in drafting dispute resolution agreements and in making the most effective choice of law and forum selection to resolve potential disputes.

ULC is consulted frequently by clients with regard to treaties. We also assist clients in analyzing the implications of existing treaties as well as treaties being proposed or negotiated. We also advise clients on the potential ramifications of, and rights available under, international conventions such as the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards and the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States, which are significant to international dispute resolution; the Convention Establishing the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, relevant to the security of foreign investment; and the Marrakech Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization, which is relevant to almost all aspects of international trade.

ULC has also extensive experience preparing and litigating complex claims under public international law and before courts and tribunals established under such law. We assist clients in establishing the validity of claims or defend against claims in these various forums. ULC frequently assists clients involved in disputes to reach amicable settlements. When settlement is not possible, we represent clients in adversarial proceedings.

ULC in view of the length and breath of its international law practice represents Pakistani and foreign businesses and individuals. Our clients include importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors, investors, foreign state representatives, entrepreneurs.

Practice Spotlight:

Collection of Monies owed to Foreign Creditors

Enforcement of Foreign Country Arbitral Awards in Pakistan

Foreign Country Judgment Enforcement in Pakistan

International Business Dispute Resolution

International Contracts: Drafting, Review, and Negotiation

International Licensing

Letters of Credit

Setting up Liaison Offices and Branches of Foreign Companies