Embassy Events
First Balkan Regional Conference on Intellectual Property Rights Held in Sarajevo
June 8, 2009
On Monday June 8th, 2009 Ambassador Charles L, English welcomed law enforcement, prosecutors, and representatives of American businesses in BiH, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Macedonia and Slovenia to an Intellectual Property Rights Conference. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”), the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office (“UKIPO”) and the Bosnian Patent and Trademark Office (“BPTO”), sponsored this innovative event in order to have the stakeholders discuss the importance of Intellectual property protection as an essential element for the technological innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development of the region.
Intellectual property theft has consequences that reach far beyond borders—requiring that individuals from all governments collectively confront this growing threat. This Conference signifies an important step in the efforts to fight intellectual property theft. If the Balkans are to reach their economic potential and become a global competitor, protecting intellectual property is crucial. Stealing intellectual property stifles economic growth and prevents the best and brightest in our communities from reaching their full potential.
During the three day conference, presenters from the USPTO, UKIPO, BPTO and other regional law enforcement and business representatives will share case studies and discuss best practices in combating the piracy of protected material.