Role For UN’s Intellectual Property Watchdog

Delegates Commit To A Central Role For The UN’s Intellectual Property Watchdog

New York, Oct 4 2006 12:00PM

The head of the United Nations agency that protects ownership of intellectual property has welcomed a commitment by all 183 Member States acknowledging its central role in defending and strengthening intellectual property worldwide, including everything from the internet to audiovisual performances.

The Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) concluded their nine-day annual meeting on Tuesday in Geneva, having discussed a whole raft of issues, ranging from a recently concluded Singapore Treaty on trademarks to protection of intellectual property on the Internet Doman Name System.

"We are all committed to the future of WIPO as the recognized global forum for the development and use of the intellectual property system as a means of economic and cultural enrichment of every nation," said Dr. Kamil Idris, WIPO’s Director-General.

"I very much hope that this good spirit of determination and commitment will prevail so that the Organization can face the challenges lying ahead."

One of the highlights of this year’s gathering was Member States support for the Singapore Treaty on the Law of Trademarks that they concluded by consensus in March this year.

This Treaty streamlines administrative procedures associated with trademark registration procedures and promises to reduce costs for trademark owners, as well as enhancing confidence in the trademark system. It is also expected to provide additional incentives for business to further invest and expand and in this way, will serve to improve the international environment for trade and investment.

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