Representing H & H Lawyers, John Kim, Tin-Lok Shea and James Jung attended the Inter-Pacific Bar Association (IPBA) Conference in New Delhi. The Pullman in New Delhi’s Aerocity provided the perfect backdrop to engage in discussions about “The Future of Law: Agility, Creativity & Change” – exploring how artificial intelligence, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and evolving cross-border investment regimes are reshaping legal practice.
James was officially appointed as IPBA President-Elect ahead of the 2027 IPBA Conference in Sydney. Together with Tin-Lok, Jurisdictional Council Member for Australia, he quickly got to work promoting the event for next year, which is already shaping up to be a wonderful showcase for the Australian legal profession. “We’re delighted to bring the IPBA annual conference back to Sydney after 21 years and look forward to welcoming friends and colleagues from across the world for a dynamic and inspiring event,” commented James.
Tin-Lok presented at the Tax Committee panel “Recent Structures and Trends to Pass Anti-avoidance Tests” covering significant ground on topics including tax residency certificates, permanent establishments, and recent case law such as the PepsiCo High Court case which considered for the first time the application of the Diverted Profits Tax. “It was particularly interesting to learn of the various ways in which anti-avoidance rules have developed across different countries – whilst reflective of distinct jurisdictional characteristics, there were many commonalities, demonstrating that this area of taxation remains ever-evolving and complex," observed Tin-Lok.
In addition to the panel sessions, delegates enjoyed a formal gala dinner with traditional Indian performances, and a raucous farewell dinner where they busted out their Bollywood dancing moves.
No trip to India would be complete without a journey to one of the wonders of the world and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal. Cue an eight-hour round trip with eight lawyers goofing around whilst learning of this awe-inspiring structure’s significance as a monument of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Whilst the IPBA is fertile ground for serious business discussions and networking, this side-trip was a testament to the beauty of the IPBA in fostering genuine and enduring friendships
