Beijing — China announced on Monday that it remains open to communication with the European Union (EU) regarding intellectual property issues, signaling a willingness to engage amidst recent tensions.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that channels of dialogue with the EU on intellectual property matters are \"always open,\" emphasizing the importance of cooperation in this critical area.
The comments came in response to the EU's decision on Monday to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China's judicial practices concerning standard essential patent (SEP) disputes. SEPs are patents essential to industry standards, and disputes over them can have significant implications for global trade and technology development.
According to an online statement by the ministry, China received a consultation request from the EU on January 20, addressing the concerns raised. The ministry underscored China's adherence to WTO rules and its commitments since joining the organization. It highlighted the nation's continuous efforts to enhance legislation and law enforcement related to the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), achievements that have been \"widely recognized.\"
\"China has consistently honored its WTO obligations and remains committed to improving IPR protection,\" the ministry stated. \"We will handle subsequent matters in accordance with WTO rules and firmly safeguard our legitimate rights and interests.\"
The ministry's response reflects China's stance on multilateral trade relations and its approach to resolving disputes through established international mechanisms.
As intellectual property becomes an increasingly vital component of global economic relations, the open channels of communication between China and the EU may pave the way for resolving disputes amicably and strengthening cooperation in innovation and technology.
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China says it's open to communication with EU on intellectual property
cgtn.com
