The Sultanate of Oman recently participated in the 65th meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) member states’ associations in Geneva, with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion representing the country. Dr. Saleh Said Masan, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, led the Omani delegation at the meeting. Masan emphasized the importance of cooperation with WIPO and highlighted various projects that Oman has undertaken with WIPO to enhance the international organisation’s intellectual property system in the country.
One of the key projects that Masan mentioned was WIPO’s support for frankincense producers in Oman. This project aims to preserve the quality and reputation of Omani frankincense and increase its marketing value locally and internationally by applying the intellectual property system as a geographical indicator. Additionally, Oman is working on implementing the “National Intellectual Property Strategy” project in collaboration with WIPO. This project is designed to create a comprehensive framework to boost innovation and safeguard intellectual property rights in Oman.
Masan pointed out the significance of the “Treaty on Genetic Resources and Related Traditional Knowledge” in protecting intellectual property rights for valuable resources. He highlighted WIPO’s support for indigenous peoples and local communities to ensure fair access to the benefits derived from the use of such resources. Masan also mentioned the importance of the WIPO Global Innovation Index (GII) in guiding Oman’s strategy for promoting innovation and intellectual property rights. He noted that Oman had climbed 10 ranks in the GII in 2023 compared to the previous year.
During the meeting, Masan drew attention to the plight of the Palestinian people, emphasizing the suffering caused by Israeli attacks on Palestinian tangible and intangible heritage. He condemned the Israeli aggression that has targeted men, children, women, health institutions, and educational institutions, while calling out the lack of legal action by the international community to hold the perpetrators accountable for these crimes against humanity. The statement read by Masan at the meeting shed light on the ongoing violations of human rights and heritage in Palestine, urging WIPO member states’ associations to take notice of the atrocities being committed.
Overall, Oman’s participation in the WIPO meeting in Geneva underscored the country’s commitment to strengthening intellectual property rights and promoting innovation. The collaboration with WIPO on various projects reflects Oman’s dedication to enhancing its intellectual property system and protecting valuable resources. Additionally, the country’s advocacy for the protection of indigenous peoples’ rights and highlighting global issues, such as the Palestinian crisis, demonstrates Oman’s engagement with international affairs and human rights concerns. By actively participating in global forums like WIPO, Oman continues to position itself as a proactive player in the realm of intellectual property and innovation on the international stage.
