Sudan: Sudan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Hassan Hamid, addressed the opening session of the 68th Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on Wednesday. He reaffirmed Sudan's commitment to strengthening and protecting intellectual property as a key driver of economic growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and the protection of national assets of cultural and economic value.
According to Sudan News Agency, Ambassador Hamid reviewed Sudan's efforts to build national capacity in the field of intellectual property. He highlighted several projects being implemented in partnership with WIPO, including the development of a national intellectual property strategy and the registration of geographical indications. These initiatives aim to promote Sudan's high-quality products closely linked to their geographic origins. Additionally, Sudan is working on establishing a national training center and technology and innovation centers.
Ambassador Hamid noted that these efforts had been disrupted by a proxy war waged by the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, which has received continued military and political support from its regional sponsor, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He stated that the militia's systematic targeting of infrastructure has severely affected the country's creative and innovation sectors, entrepreneurs, and research centers.
The Sudanese envoy concluded by expressing Sudan's hope that WIPO would play an active role in supporting the country's recovery and reconstruction efforts. He emphasized the importance of rebuilding Sudan's intellectual property system and promoting innovation and sustainable development.