International IP forum opens in Shanghai

The 16th Shanghai International Intellectual Property (IP) Forum - aiming to "enhance international cooperation in IP protection and build a world-class business environment" - opened in Shanghai on Oct 21.

Shen Changyu, commissioner of the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), and Ying Yong, mayor of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, attended and addressed the opening ceremony.

Shen Changyu addresses the opening ceremony of the 16th Shanghai International IP Forum on Oct 21. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Shen said in his speech that Shanghai is a pioneer in China's reform and opening up and a leader in innovation and development, including the development of intellectual property in China.

He also mentioned that, in the upcoming second China International Import Expo, CNIPA will work with Shanghai to more effectively protect IPR and ensure the success of the expo.

Mayor Ying Yong introduced Shanghai's efforts and achievements in recent years in building itself into an IP hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

Director-general of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Francis Gurry delivered a keynote speech during the opening ceremony.

Francis Gurry delivers a keynote speech during the opening ceremony of the 16th Shanghai International IP Forum on Oct 21. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Gurry spoke highly of China's achievements in IP development, especially when it comes to IPR, in recent years.

China is an important contributor to and promoter of international IP cooperation systems such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty and the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks. WIPO hopes to work with China to better carry out international IPR cooperation, said Gurry.

In addition, the award ceremony of the first Shanghai Intellectual Property Innovation Award was held during the opening ceremony. A total of nine entities, including Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, received the honor.

Gan Shaoning, deputy commissioner of CNIPA, and Wang Binying, deputy director-general of WIPO, also attended the opening ceremony, while Chen Qun, vice mayor of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, presided over the ceremony.