(www.Chinanews.com.cn) Six recognized Chinese enterprises with close links to the intellectual property rights (IPRs) – including Shanda Networking, Netease Group, Microsoft China, Sina Group, Beijing Kingsoft and Sunchime Cartoon Group –issued a proposal at the "2006
international copyright forum," suggesting the establishment of a "China enterprise copyright alliance". The alliance would abide by international and domestic laws and decrees, such as the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works," the "Universal Copyright Convention," the "Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights" and the "Regulations on the Protection of the Right of Communication Through Information Networks"..

Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sunchime Cartoon Group Sun Wenhua spoke at the forum on behalf of the six enterprises. He stated that although China is a growing power in international trade, copyright-related industries have just started to develop proper IPR protection. He stressed the urgent need for industries to create new rules and gain a stronger foothold in the IPR economy. The Sunchime Chairman also identified the heavy responsibility that lies on the shoulders of all copyright-related industries.

According to the letter of proposal issued at the meeting, the alliance faces three major tasks. First, a long-term dialogue mechanism among enterprises ,international copyright organizations, governments and media needs to be established. .Second, appeals should be issued to all Chinese enterprises to increase self-owned IPRs and innovative development to strengthen copyright-related industries. Added to this, the alliance should appeal to the government for more support in areas like investment and policy as well as research and development. And finally third, the group should appeal for related industries to develop a firm understanding of the harm of copyright
violations cause to all intellectual property.

Sun Wenhua stated that the allegiance is a non-governmental entity that is deeply rooted in the intellectual economy and international trade. The value of this alliance lies in its ability to act as a guide—with some government assistance—to a large number of enterprises and entrepreneurs. More specifically, the group can help other businesses focus on the importance of maintaining a healthy, interactive relationship with China’s development while also shouldering social responsibilities. Proper protocol surrounding IPR issues will help China develop into an innovative country that will continue to maintain stable growth in the future.

The "2006 international copyright forum," was jointly hosted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the State Copyright Bureau. More than 200 participants come from all over the world to attend the forum, including people from recognized IPR protection organizations, the Chinese government and senior executives from over 100 recognized enterprises. The participants discussed policies that will guide copyright-related enterprises and industries.

(editor in charge: Hu Lishan)