The Contracting Parties,
Considering that the universal adoption of a uniform system of classification of patents,
inventors’ certificates, utility models and utility certificates is in the general
interest and is likely to establish closer international cooperation in the industrial
property field, and to contribute to the harmonization of national legislation in
that field,
Recognizing the importance of the European Convention on the International Classification
of Patents for Invention, of December 19, 1954, under which the Council of Europe
created the International Classification of Patents for Invention,
Having regard to the universal value of this Classification, and to its importance
to all countries party to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property,
Having regard to the importance to developing countries of this Classification, which
gives them easier access to the ever-expanding volume of modern technology,
Having regard to Article 19 of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of March
20, 1883, as revised at Brussels on December 14, 1900, at Washington on June 2, 1911,
at The Hague on November 6, 1925, at London on June 2, 1934, at Lisbon on October
31, 1958, and at Stockholm on July 14, 1967,
Agree as follows: