472. Colombia is very interested in this discussion. We consider it a priority for Members to coordinate on how to address the implementation of the flexibilities provided for in the TRIPS Agreement, while continuing to uphold the principles established in the Agreement and seeking alternative measures that safeguard public health, without disproportionately and unduly affecting intellectual property rights.
473. More specifically, regarding the use of the exceptions provided for in the TRIPS Agreement, Colombia has, until now, been able to address its public health requirements through direct dialogue with intellectual property right holders. In this way, we have managed to find solutions jointly and consensually, without any need to use the flexibilities provided for in the TRIPS Agreement.
474. The current global health crisis is a different scenario, however. Colombia cannot rule out the possibility of implementing the various TRIPS flexibilities in the future, particularly in the context of a health crisis such as this one, where it has become necessary to safeguard the primary objective of protecting public health.
475. Nevertheless, Colombia reiterates its commitment to respect intellectual property rights, and we reiterate that if it becomes necessary to use the flexibilities provided for in the TRIPS Agreement, the country will remain committed to complying with the principles set forth in that Agreement, and do its utmost to strike a balance as regards the measures taken.
