This is the 4th ODA project funded by JICA to Vietnam in the field of intellectual property since 2000. This project will be jointly implemented by the parties for two years, from 2021 to 2023, focusing on the patent field, specifically helping the NOIP to develop quality control documents to appraise the patent application and complete the existing patent application examination regulations and supplement guidance on examination of invention applications in the fields of artificial intelligence, internet of things and computer software.

In order to support the project implementation, JICA sent Mr. Nishimoto Koji, who is a patent examiner and a member of the Quality Control Board of Patent Application Appraisal of Japan Patent Office (JPO), to work in Vietnam in 2 years. With 28 years of experience in patent examination and professional skills in patent examination and quality management, Mr. Nishimoto Koji is considered suitable for a long-term expert position and is expected to contribute to the successful implementation of the Project's activities with the close cooperation of the National Office of Intellectual Property of Vietnam. At the same time, he will act as a bridge in the cooperation between the National Office of Intellectual Property of Vietnam, JICA and JPO in other issues of mutual concern.

Also within the framework of the meeting, the NOIP solemnly held the opening ceremony of the Project Office in the presence of Deputy Director Phan Ngan Son, JICA Expert - Mr. Nishimoto Koji, representative of JICA Vietnam and related units of the National Office of Intellectual Property of Vietnam.

In the context of the limited working space and resources of the NOIP, representatives of JICA and individual Project Specialists expressed their joy at the Department's office arrangement and provision of office supplies is essential for the Project, demonstrating the Partner Agency's high commitment to cooperation in the implementation of the Project.

Finally, Deputy Director Phan Ngan Son affirmed, with the experience of cooperating with JICA and many generations of long-term experts in previous projects, NOIP will surely cooperate actively and effectively with JICA in general and JICA Specialist in particular to bring this project to the set target, contribute to strengthening the good cooperation between Vietnam and Japan in the field of intellectual property.