Oman Seeks WIPO Support for Frankincense Producers at Geneva Meeting
Geneva, The Gulf Observer: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, participated in the sessions of the 65th meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) member states’ associations in Geneva.
The Omani delegation was led by Dr. Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry. In his address, Dr. Masan highlighted Oman’s request for WIPO’s support in preserving the quality and reputation of Omani frankincense. This initiative aims to enhance the marketing value of Omani frankincense by applying the intellectual property system as a geographical indicator.
Dr. Masan emphasized the significance of cooperation with WIPO, noting that Oman has closely worked with the organization on various projects to strengthen the international intellectual property system within the country. He announced that Oman is implementing a “National Intellectual Property Strategy” in collaboration with WIPO. This project aims to establish a comprehensive framework to enhance innovation and ensure the protection of intellectual property rights in Oman.
“The project seeks to establish a comprehensive framework to enhance innovation and ensure the protection of intellectual property rights in the Sultanate of Oman,” Dr. Masan explained. He also noted that the WIPO’s Global Innovation Index (GII) is a key reference indicator for this strategy, highlighting that Oman advanced ten ranks in the GII in 2023 compared to 2022.
Dr. Masan underscored the importance of the “Treaty on Genetic Resources and Related Traditional Knowledge” in protecting intellectual property rights for valuable resources. He expressed appreciation for WIPO’s support in securing fair access to benefits arising from the use of genetic resources for indigenous peoples and local communities.
In his statement, Dr. Masan also drew attention to the plight of the Palestinian people, citing the devastating impact of Israeli attacks on Palestinian tangible and intangible heritage. He called on WIPO member states’ associations to recognize the violations of human rights and the destruction of heritage occurring under the full sight of the international community. Dr. Masan stressed the need for international organizations to take legal action against the perpetrators of these crimes against humanity.
Oman’s participation in the 65th meeting of WIPO member states underscores its commitment to strengthening intellectual property systems and supporting the protection and promotion of its unique cultural and natural resources.
