Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Tuesday reiterated his
determination to improve the protection of intellectual property
rights (IPR).
"China's IPR protection efforts will carry the full force of
steel, " Wen said during an interview with journalists from five
European news organizations, prior to his visit to Finland, the
United Kingdom, Germany and Tajikistan.
Wen said that China's priority to the protection of IPR has
grown in recent years. This relates to China's rapid development,
adding that China should be given some more time.
He listed the measures the Chinese government has taken to
protect the IPR:
First, the IPR protection strategy is being pursued with the
same vigor devoted to the national innovation strategy.
Second, a national leading group for IPR protection has been set
up to exercise overall oversight and coordination over nationwide
IPR protection efforts.
Thirdly, China has adopted and revised a number of laws and
regulations on IPR protection. Most important among these are the
Patent Law, the Copyright Law and the Trademark Law. China will
continue to improve the relevant laws and regulations, aiming to
lower the threshold for prosecuting IPR-related offences.
Fourthly, law enforcement is being strengthened. Administrative
and judicial protection complement each other. China has launched
special national operations against IPR infringement and 50 centers
have been set up across China to handle IPR violation
complaints.
Fifthly, China is working to raise public awareness of the
importance of IPR protection to encourage consumers, businesses and
social groups to play their part in protecting IPR.
Finally, China has taken an active part in international
cooperation and has ongoing dialogue with the EU on IPR
protection.
(Xinhua News Agency September 7, 2006)