452. The representative of South Africa said that his delegation recognized the sensitivity of this issue and the tension between on one hand the right to protect and promote public health and on the other hand the right of the intellectual property right holder. As the debate in this Council had not yet matured in any degree, his delegation suggested that Members fully and sufficiently apply their minds to it before the discussion was broadened. He said that, while he appreciated the views and the unquestionable expertise of the WHO, he felt that at this point it was best to allow Members to apply themselves to the issue. His delegation wished to emphasize again that it recognized both the right of Members to protect and advance public health in the same way that it recognized the rights of the right holder of the IP.
