Manila: Pakistan and the Philippines are discussing avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the realm of intellectual property (IP), as representatives from both nations met in Manila. Mr. Nauman Aslam, Director General of IPO-Pakistan, held talks with Mr. Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua, Director General of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), to explore potential collaborations.

According to Press Information Department, the discussions centered on establishing a formal framework for ongoing institutional collaboration, potentially through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) framework. The meeting was attended by the Pakistani delegation, led by Ambassador Ms. Asma Rabbani, and Ms. Fareeha Khan, Trade and Investment Counsellor.

Key areas identified for cooperation included the exchange of information and best practices in IP legislation, registration and examination procedures, as well as IP awareness, management, and commercialization. The discussions also covered enforcement, technology transfer and innovation support, and the protection and commercial development of Geographical Indications (GIs).

Both parties also looked into strengthening Technology Transfer Offices and supporting university-based innovation and commercialization initiatives. Promoting origin-linked products through effective GI registration, quality assurance, branding, and marketing was highlighted. Reciprocal visits and exchanges of delegations were also considered as means to enhance institutional ties.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment to advancing intellectual property as a catalyst for innovation, enterprise development, and trade, aiming to deepen economic and institutional relations between Pakistan and the Philippines.