29 January 2007 07/019
IP'S ECONOMIC VALUE HIGHLIGHTED AT APEC SYMPOSIUM
The importance of a robust intellectual property (IP) rights system to the Australian economy has been highlighted by the Hon Bob Baldwin MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources.
Speaking today on the first day of the Trading Ideas Symposium in Sydney, the first pubic-private sector event of APEC 2007, Mr Baldwin said IP was a key driver of the knowledge economy and an essential component for the Australia’s future economic strength.
“The Australian Government has actively contributed to the development of a strong and effective IP rights system," he said.
"We undertake this task through cooperation at the very highest levels through multilateral forums and dialogue," he said.
“This cooperation and dialogue is designed to help build an IP system that is responsive to the needs of business and also acts as a key support to regional trade and investment.”
Mr. Baldwin said with its experience at the forefront of innovation, Australia was working with other economies in the region to strengthen their own IP systems.
“Australia provides business with the security of knowing that their intellectual property rights will be respected and enforced. Now we are working with our trading partners in the region to develop the same security for business and investors by strengthening their IP systems for the good of everyone involved.”
The symposium was opened by Australia’s Attorney-General, the Hon Phillip Ruddock MP and presenters include US Under-Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property, Jon W. Dudas, who is also the Director of the US Patent and Trademark Office; the President-Elect of the European Patent Office, Alison Brimelow; and the Deputy Director-General, World Intellectual Property Organisation, Francis Gurry.
A range of senior regional business people also are leading discussions including the Senior IP Counsel in Asia for General Electric (China) Co Ltd, Jack Chang; and the Intellectual Property Director from the Foster’s Group, Owen Malone.
For more information contact Michelle Moffat 0419 832533
