India, Denmark sign MoU on intellectual property cooperation

at 2:18 pm

New Delhi (NVI): India and Denmark today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to increase intellectual property cooperation between the two countries, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry said.

“Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), signed a MoU, in the field of Intellectual Property Cooperation with the Danish Patent and Trademark Office, Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, Kingdom of Denmark,” the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a statement.

The MoU was signed by Guruprasad Mohapatra, Secretary DPIIT from the Indian side and Freddy Svane, Ambassador of Denmark to India, it added.

Earlier on September 15, the Union Cabinet in its meeting gave the approval for signing the MoU with Denmark in the field of IP Cooperation.

The MoU aims at increasing IP co-operation between the two countries, by exchange of best practices, experiences and knowledge on IP awareness among public, authorities, businesses and research and educational institution of both countries, the ministry noted.

It will also collaborate in training programmes, exchange of experts, technical exchanges and outreach activities.

The exchange of information and best practices on processes for disposal of applications for patents, trademarks, industrial designs and Geographical Indications, as also the protection, enforcement and use of IP rights.

Moreover, the cooperation in the development of automation and implementation of modernization projects, new documentation and information systems in IP and procedures for management of IP to be focused under the MoU. Also, cooperation to understand how traditional knowledge is protected, including the use of traditional knowledge related databases and awareness raising of existing IP systems.

The ministry further said, the two sides will draw up biennial work plan to implement the MoU which will include the detailed planning for carrying out of the co-operation activities, including the scope of action.

This MoU will go a long way in fostering the cooperation between India and Denmark, and provide opportunities to both countries to learn from the experience of each other, especially in terms of best practices followed in the other country.

However, it will be a landmark step forward in India’s journey towards becoming a major player in global innovation and further the objectives of National IPR Policy, 2016, the ministry added.

-RJV