An ECO delegation headed by Dr. Sayed Yahya Akhlaqi, Deputy Secretary General, participated in the Regional Seminar on Geographical Indications (GIs) held virtually on November 18, 2020. The event under the theme of Distinctive Signs for “Origin-Based Products: Geographical Indication, Collective and Certification Marks” was hosted by the Intellectual Property Center (IPC) of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in cooperation of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), organizer of the Seminar. High-level Representatives from ECO Member Countries also attended the seminar.
In his statement Dr. Akhlaqi emphasized the aspects of the event covered under the umbrella of Geographical Indications, including (I) Protection of Distinctive Signs for Origin-Based Products, (II) Creating Commercial Value through Connecting Goods to their Geographical Origin: Challenges and Opportunities, (III) Systems of Protection for Origin-based Product and (IV) Protecting Geographical Indications Abroad.
While highlighting the importance of Distinctive Signs for Origin-Based Products, he underscored that trainings and exchange of expertise are the bases for expanding cooperation amongst the Member States and other International Organizations. He noted the essentiality of the role of national IP offices for developing nexus in order to accelerate the process of cooperation in the relevant area of activity.
The Member countries and heads of delegations also delivered their reports/representations on different aspects of the Geographical Indications.
