Programs and Events

Paraguay and the United States Sign Memorandum of Understanding

To combat Counterfeiting and Piracy

April 30, 2008

Ambassador James Cason, with Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano.

U.S. Ambassador James Cason and Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on intellectual property rights, which represents a significant commitment for Paraguay in the fight against piracy and counterfeiting. The event took place in the Foreign Ministry's assembly hall in the presence of Paraguayan authorities and U.S. Embassy officials.

At the event, Ambassador Cason stated that the fight against piracy and counterfeiting is a U.S. priority and reiterated its commitment to continue supporting Paraguay in efforts to combat this problem.

Although there are significant challenges for Paraguay in fulfilling the commitments set out in the MOU, the U.S. government recognizes Paraguay's efforts in protecting intellectual property rights and this agreement represents the main bilateral mechanism of collaboration and action on these issues.

With the signing of the MOU, Paraguay has seriously demonstrated a real commitment to improve and maintain measures to strengthen intellectual property rights and punish piracy and counterfeiting crimes.