WIPO commends Thailand on intellectual property potection measures

BANGKOK, April 23 (TNA) -- The Director-General of the World Intellectual Property Organisation applauded Thailand's efforts in tackling intellectual property violations in the most effective and exemplary manner. Deputy Government Spokesman Lt Gen Weerachon Sukondhapatipak reported that Mr Francis Gurry, Director-General of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-Ocha upon during his official visit to Thailand. Lt Gen Weerachon told reporters that both men had exchanged views regarding the development intellectual property laws in relation to the government's Thailand 4.0 policy which plans for increased technological utilisation and innovation in the economy that will depend on these laws not only for protection but also to facilitate increased specialisation. The PM informed Mr Gurry of his hopes for the WIPO to assist the government in helping to educate and foster awareness among the general public and would greatly appreciate any advice on ways to resolve possible confrontations that may arise among ASEAN members in the foreseeable future. Lt Gen Weerachon said that Mr Gurry had responded by personally praising Gen Prayut for his pivotal role in driving intellectual property reforms in the country which has resulted in effective crackdowns on infringements. It was also reported that both men acknowledged the United States Trade Representative removed Thailand from its Priority Watch List (PWL) to the less controversial Watch List (WL) which reflects the importance the Thai government has placed in creating intellectual property protection reforms and the progress it has made to enforce them. Gen Prayut closed by reiterating that the government was committed to forming intellectual property protection laws in Thailand by referencing international intellectual property codes and standards which would allow her to achieve greater parity among the western counterparts. (TNA)