A regional workshop “Building Respect for Intellectual Property” organized by the World Intellectual property Organization (WIPO), in coordination with the Ministry of Economic Development, and with the assistance of Japan Patent Office, was held at Nasandhura Palace Hotel today. The workshop was inaugurated by the Minister of Economic Development, Hon.  Ahmed Mohamed.

In his speech, the Minister stated that in order to ensure that the global growth path remains sustainable, it is critical to ensure that new creations and innovations are protected and measures are in place to capitalize the economic benefits from such advancements. The Minister also touched upon the challenges that the region is facing in the current time, in implementing intellectual Property Rights.

“I believe that the foundation for a strong and effective IPR system begins with awareness building, or ‘building respect for IP’. Through deeper understanding of the role of IP in development and its contributions towards improving the standards of living, both producers and consumers can be brought to realize that the benefits of protecting IP outweighs the costs in the long term”, Minister said.

Mr. Omar Katbi, Councelor, Building Respect for IP Division of WIPO addressed the participants as well. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of building respect for IP, especially to fight piracy and counterfeits.

Mr. Onodera, assistant Director, Regional Policy Office, of the Japan Patent Office also spoke to the participants.

This two day workshop is attended by 6 regional countries, including Maldives.  A total of 35 participants attended the workshop. This includes 20 foreign participants from the respective country Intellectual Property Offices, and 15 local participants from the relevant ministries and offices, other relevant organizations, as well as representation from the private sector.

The objectives of this workshop are, to enhance the understanding of the role of IP awareness in socio economic development, to understand the consumer’s attitudes and motivations, as well as the role of businesses in balancing IP rights and interests, to provide stakeholders with the necessary information on how to develop and implement national awareness raising strategies with a view to curbing the demand for counterfeit goods, and to foster strategic cooperation between stakeholders from both the public and private sector.

• View Archives of News:
• 2009 |
• 2010 |
• 2011 |
• 2012 |
• 2013 |
• Most recent (5)