Intellectual Property Rights Pakistan has taken notice of advertisement casting a look alike of Mr Bean as the product has been advertised by using the name of a famous comedy character, Mr Bean, who is the creation of Rowan Atkinson. IPO-Pakistan has proved its vigilance in promoting and building respect for intellectual property rights in the country.
About a recent case, Chairman IPO-Pakistan and Member National Assembly, Hameedullah Jan Afridi showed immense concern in relation to an advertisement casting a look alike of Mr Bean. The product was gaining popularity by using the name of a famous comedy character, Mr Bean, who is the creation of Rowan Atkinson.
The chairman IPO-Pakistan made efforts to contact the relevant department to enquire and inform about the IP Rights of Rowan Atkinson. He was assured by the department that they had duly entered an agreement with the marketing agents of Rowan Atkinson. Nevertheless, further enquiry was conducted by IPO-Pakistan and they approached the marketing agents of Rowan Atkinson to confirm about the said agreement. It was confirmed that there was an agreement in place and vigilant steps in this regard by IPO-Pakistan were highly appreciated at international level.
It is also to be mentioned that positive steps in creating awareness and discouraging rampant violation of IP rights by IPO-Pakistan are a way forward in building mutual respect of I.P rights locally and at international forums. Such steps will encourage Foreign Direct Investment in Pakistan and will alleviate fears of foreign investors regarding infringement of IP Rights.-PR