Intellectual property protection is critical to fostering innovation - AG

The protection of intellectual property is critical to fostering the innovation of our local entrepreneurs and innovators, who will again contribute to economic development and global recognition.

This was highlighted by the Attorney General, Siromi Turaga, while delivering his speech at the opening of the Heads of Intellectual Property Office Conference for Pacific Islands Countries at Tanoa Plaza, this morning.

Turaga says this conference provides a unique platform for the participants to engage in an open dialogue to share their knowledge, best practices, inspirational success stories and mainly raise awareness of the significance of intellectual property protection for Pacific Island countries.

He further says intellectual property can be utilised to promote economic growth and protect traditional knowledge in the most efficient way through patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets, which will provide a legal foundation for the ideas and products of individuals and organisations.

He adds that the aim of the conference is to talk about the problem, discuss realistic solutions and create opportunities to foster and create partnerships.

The theme of the conference is "Towards a Regional Intellectual Property Strategy and Initiative for Entrepreneurs and Innovators in and from the Pacific Islands."

The conference will end this Thursday.