BIMSTEC nations forge consensus on traditional medicine, genetic resources and IP cooperation
The two-day conference brought together all seven BIMSTEC member states, with delegates reaching consensus on cooperation in traditional medicine, genetic resources and intellectual property.
All seven member states also agreed to support one another on issues relating to intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional medicine knowledge.
GOA: The third BIMSTEC Conference on Traditional Medicine Knowledge, Genetic Resources and Intellectual Property Rights and the Second BIMSTEC Nodal Group Meeting concluded in Goa on Thursday, with participation from all seven BIMSTEC member states.
The second day of the conference included a visit to the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, where delegates were shown its facilities for tertiary care and academics. Delegates also shared institutional practices and experiences during the visit.
A plantation programme was organised as part of the conference, highlighting the participating countries’ shared focus on traditional medicine and biodiversity conservation.
Four areas of cooperation identified
The BIMSTEC Nodal Group deliberated on and reached agreement on four broad areas of regional cooperation:
- Institutional and policy cooperation
- Standards and trade
- Documentation and capacity building
- Implementation mechanisms
All seven member states also agreed to support one another on issues relating to intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional medicine knowledge.
The discussions and agreements are intended to provide a framework for continued regional cooperation in the field.
Prof. Vaidya PK Prajapati, Director, AIIA, said the conference had moved beyond discussions towards consensus on several issues, with the Goa Conclusions providing a foundation for future BIMSTEC cooperation.
Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, appreciated the participation and cooperation of the member states.
Kadirkamu Kandasamy Yoganaadan, Director, Science, Technology & Innovation and Health and Human Resource Development Division, BIMSTEC Secretariat, appreciated the Ministry of Ayush and AIIA Goa for organising the conference and the coordination extended to participating delegates.
He said regional cooperation ultimately seeks to improve people’s well-being and preserve traditional medicine heritage for future generations.
Prof. Dr Sujata Kadam, Dean, AIIA Goa, delivered the Vote of Thanks and expressed gratitude to BIMSTEC member states, delegates, experts, officials and other stakeholders for their participation in the conference.
