ISLAMABAD, Oct 12 (APP):The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen institutional cooperation, facilitate information sharing and protect generic pharmaceutical names from inappropriate trademark registration.
The MoU was signed by DRAP Chief Executive Officer Dr. Obaidullah and IPO-Pakistan Chairman Dr. Hafiz Aziz ur Rehman in the presence of senior officers of both organisations.
Under the agreement, the two institutions will share relevant information and databases within their respective legal mandates and organize joint training sessions, workshops and seminars to enhance mutual understanding of applicable laws, regulations and practices.
A key component of the MoU is the protection of International Nonproprietary Names (INNs), which are generic names assigned to pharmaceutical substances and recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
DRAP and IPO-Pakistan will work together to discourage the registration of trademarks derived from INNs or their recognized stems, in line with WHO guidance and the Trade Marks Ordinance, 2001.
The initiative aims to prevent confusion among doctors, pharmacists and patients, while promoting fair competition and ensuring that generic pharmaceutical names remain available for appropriate public and commercial use.
Speaking on the occasion, DRAP CEO Dr. Obaidullah stressed the need for effective implementation of the MoU and appreciated the IPO-Pakistan chairman’s interest in finalizing the cooperation framework.
He said information sharing between the two organizations would support informed decision-making and ultimately benefit consumers and stakeholders in the therapeutic goods sector.
IPO-Pakistan Chairman Dr. Hafiz Aziz ur Rehman said a balanced approach to intellectual property protection, in accordance with national laws and international commitments, was essential for fostering innovation, attracting foreign direct investment and safeguarding the public interest.
To ensure effective implementation, both organizations will nominate focal persons not below the rank of director to coordinate activities and advance cooperation under the agreement.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
