News - Switzerland, Geneva, Permanent Representation of the Republic of Bulgaria

On 31 march, during a courtesy meeting held on the occasion of the assumption of office of the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Angel Bandjov, together with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Daren Tang, the instrument of accession of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement was officially deposited – an important step towards strengthening the international protection of geographical indications and appellations of origin.

During the meeting, the long-standing and fruitful partnership between the Republic of Bulgaria and WIPO was reaffirmed, with emphasis placed on the key role of intellectual property as a driver of innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth.

Prospects for further deepening cooperation in the fields of intellectual property, innovation, and digital transformation were discussed, including opportunities for more active participation of the Republic of Bulgaria in WIPO initiatives and upcoming international forums. The country’s progress in high technologies was highlighted, including the work of the INSAIT and investments in modern digital infrastructure. Bulgaria’s ranking of 37th in the WIPO Global Innovation Index for 2025 was also noted, as well as the consistent national policy in support of research and development. The potential of the growing creative economy and opportunities for further cooperation in support of innovators and creators were also discussed.

The Republic of Bulgaria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, the international rule of law, and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations was reaffirmed.