231. The representative of India asked the representative of WIPO how technical assistance had changed following the adoption of the development agenda, particularly the focus on the exercise of TRIPS flexibilities. With respect to the presentation by the WHO, he noted that it had been stated that special emphasis had been given to the implementation and use of TRIPS flexibilities and public policy options. However, the WHO's annual report (IP/C/W/549/Add.4) did not reflect this emphasis. He asked the representative of the WHO how the WHO assessed the System and whether it had conducted a study as to why the System had only been used once in the past seven years. Noting that the System provided for measures to harness economies of scale, he asked whether the WHO factored this into its programmes, particularly for LDCs. Finally, he wondered how free trade agreements promoted by developed Members which circumscribed TRIPS flexibilities impinged on efforts made by the WHO.
