http://wikileaks.org/cable/2005/11/05GENEVA2798.html
Cable subject: Wto Trips Council October 25-26 2005
Cable written Wed, 16 Nov 2005 09:17 UTC
TRANSITION PERIOD FOR LEAST-DEVELOPED COUNTRIES-REQUEST FOR EXTENSION
- Zambian Ambassador introduced LDC proposal to extend transitional period for TRIPS Compliance by An additional 15 years. He stressed points concerning that resource and economic difficulties LDCs face and the costs of implementing TRIPS obligations. Tanzania, Uganda, Cambodia, Senegal, Lesotho all supported Zambia’s statement.
- Argentina and Brazil commented that no evidence exists that IPRs are good for developing countries, citing their Development Agenda proposals in WIPO. They stated that many developing countries are questioning the benefits of IP and TRIPS in their economies and whether it actually leads to technology transfer and development.
- Japan, U.S., EC and Switzerland all indicated that a more country-by-country approach to the extension request would be more feasible in order to ensure that all countries can implement and benefit from the TRIPS Agreement. The USDEL specifically noted the well-documented links between IP and development.
- Norway stated that it supported the request but also stated that IP is essential to development and would come back to the issue at a later time.