6. The representative of the United States said that the transition period for least developed countries to implement the provisions of the TRIPS Agreement was a matter of great importance to the United States, to LDCs and to all Members of the WTO. The United States had supported the previous extension of the transition period in 2005 and worked constructively with LDC Members on securing that extension. Its support of that extension had been premised on the importance of promoting IP protection and enforcement, particularly as a significant driver of the development goals of LDCs. IP protection and enforcement provided critical incentives for creativity and innovation that would promote economic growth and create jobs, particularly in LDCs where these benefits were needed most. The TRIPS Agreement implementation facilitated these benefits. Her delegation recognized that, while significant challenges existed, many LDCs had IP laws and enforcement mechanisms in place and had taken commendable steps towards implementing TRIPS. It commended the progress by LDCs in this regard and thought it was essential to recognize and preserve those accomplishments and to continue that progress toward full implementation. In this spirit, the United States could join consensus, and looked forward to its continued work with LDCs in implementing the TRIPS Agreement.
