China has reaffirmed its openness to communication with the European Union (EU) on intellectual property issues, following a recent move by the EU at the World Trade Organization (WTO). On Monday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that channels of dialogue with the EU are \"always open.\"
Earlier that day, the EU filed a complaint at the WTO against China's judicial ruling on standard essential patent disputes. In response to media inquiries, the ministry revealed in an online statement that China had received a consultation request from the EU on January 20.
The ministry emphasized that China has strictly adhered to WTO rules and its accession commitments, continuously improving legislation and law enforcement related to the protection of intellectual property rights. It noted that China's achievements in this area have been widely recognized.
\"We will address subsequent matters in accordance with WTO rules and firmly safeguard our legitimate rights and interests,\" the ministry added.
Reference(s):
China says it's open to communication with EU on intellectual property
cgtn.com
