104. While Bolivia's position on these agenda items remains unchanged, we consider that it is important to reiterate several points that continue to generate debate.
105. Bolivia contends that natural processes and environmental functions cannot be commercialized, and therefore all forms of life in their natural state or one of the components thereof in isolation, including plants and animals and parts thereof, gene sequences and microorganisms, as specified in Article 27(3)(b), must be excluded from patentability.
106. Bolivia considers that this prohibition is closely linked with the Convention on Biological Diversity, and in this regard, it is essential to ensure that the intellectual property system is compatible with this Convention. For this reason, it is necessary to supplement the provisions of the TRIPS Agreement. Achieving this balance between both instruments will help to prevent biopiracy and misappropriation of genetic resources and traditional knowledge, and will provide developing countries with appropriate mechanisms to ensure adequate comprehensive protection.
107. Lastly, it is important to update the TRIPS Agreement so as to include these aspects, regardless of the fact that negotiations on the matter are being conducted at the World Intellectual Property Organization.