To: process.mail@wipo.int
From: "Cyprus"
Subject: 2nd WIPO process on DNS
Date: Thu, 7 Jun 2001 13:34:33 +0200
Verbal comments made at the Valencia meeting.
a. The issue of geographic names and designations is a complex one, but the issues surrounding certain categories of geographic names can be
more easily addressed and resolved than others because they are well defined. The country names issue, as mentioned in our written presentation,
is considered to be well defined and should be separated from "other geographical names" i.e. town names, village names, area names.
b. The issue of "other geographical names" can be investigated further by inviting comments from interested parties and by compiling a list to
identify genuine problematic/duplication areas.
c. A list may be created out of the responses, consisting of all "other geographic names" and all respective rightful owners.
d. Where duplication exists i.e. Paris/USA, Paris/France, the following is recommended
1. Both rightful owners agree to share use and obligations (arising out of its use) of the shared name.
2. Until such time as this may be technically feasible, (possibly by utilizing existing database technologies), a small portal is created using
the desired name i.e. paris.com, which contains links to the alternative location of identical names i.e. parisfrance.com and parisusa.com.
3. Investigate the creation of a new gTLD on geographic names.
e. Any recommendation regarding registration or arbitration policies should be applicable regardless of language.
f. At any given time, registration policies apply with all amendments in force, and no argument can be sustained as to applicability of the
registration policy in force at the time of initial registration.
g. The recommendations should allow for a reasonable grace period for those country names that have been registered in good faith before they are
returned to their rightful owners.