The delegation of Kazakhstan headed by the Minister of Justice Azamat Yeskarayev held a meeting with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization Daren Tang

Geneva, July 5, 2023 – During the meeting, the Minister emphasized the importance of safeguarding intellectual property rights in Kazakhstan and supporting the role of WIPO in global governance in this field. He highlighted the country's readiness to enhance practical collaboration with WIPO experts. For instance, Kazakhstan implemented a law last year aimed at improving the registration system for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.

Yeskarayev also informed about Kazakhstan's imminent accession to the Marrakesh Agreement and the Hague Agreement on international registration of industrial designs. Furthermore, Kazakhstan has approved a three-year Roadmap containing specific steps for the development of intellectual property.

The Minister suggested that WIPO representatives familiarize themselves with «aport» variety apples from Kazakhstan, renowned for their unique taste and aroma. Registering this apple variety as a geographical indication would contribute to the protection and promotion of the product, providing market advantages for the development of rural areas and supporting producers. Ultimately, it would foster economic growth and boost tourism in Kazakhstan.

The Minister also mentioned that a project to establish Technology and Innovation Support Centers in Kazakhstan, in collaboration with WIPO, is progressing actively. This project will grant Kazakhstan access to specialized patent information.

It was emphasized that Kazakhstan hosted the WIPO Summer School for the first time in July 2022, and the Second WIPO Summer School is scheduled to take place in Almaty in September of this year.

WIPO Director General Tang assured that WIPO experts are prepared to provide specialized training on intellectual property protection to personnel in the judicial system, law enforcement agencies, and customs services.

In conclusion, the parties agreed to further deepen cooperation and jointly implement projects that promote innovation, economic growth, and development in the Republic of Kazakhstan.