Traditional knowledge and cultural expressions are among the top priorities of the Intellectual Property Conference, which ensures their recognition and protection.
This was highlighted by the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga while officiating at the Intellectual Property Office Conference for the Pacific Island Countries conference held in Suva yesterday.
With the theme; Towards a Regional Intellectual Property (IP) Strategy and Initiative for Entrepreneurs and Innovators, in and from the Pacific Islands, the three-day workshop provides a platform to engage in open dialogue where participants from the Pacific can share knowledge, and best practices, and draw from the various experiences across the region.
In addition to learning from each other and taking inspiration from success stories, the A-G encouraged the participants to work together to raise awareness about how IP protects the Pacific islands’ intellectual property and how IP can be used to promote economic growth and protect traditional knowledge and cultural expressions.
“The Pacific islands have a rich cultural heritage that can be integrated into their intellectual property strategy. By branding products and services with elements from the cultural heritage, the region can create a unique identity that resonates with global consumers.
“We need to protect, empower, and nurture the talents of entrepreneurs and innovators, paving the way for economic development, global recognition, and the preservation of culture and heritage.”
In addition, the A-G highlighted that the Pacific Islands can embark on a brighter, more prosperous future by uniting our efforts to safeguard and promote intellectual property.
“This initiative represents a step forward in shaping the destiny of the Pacific Islands, encouraging creativity, and fostering a legacy of innovation that will benefit generations to come.”
