On March 20, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo - BELTA /. The International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" is commencing the conclusion of agreements for the right to use its trademark, as reported to BELTA correspondent by Olga Salnikova, First Deputy General Director of the "Vitebsk" Cultural Centre. The corporate logo of the renowned festival is recognisable and widely known – it is a cornflower on a musical staff. As a trademark, it is registered in the State Register of Trademarks and Service Marks under number 19022 and is protected by the current legislation of the Republic of Belarus. In accordance with the Civil Code, the owner of a trademark has the exclusive right to its use and disposal, as well as the right to prohibit the use of the trademark by other persons. No one may use a trademark protected in the territory of Belarus, for which a certificate has been issued, without the permission of its owner. Unauthorized manufacturing, use, import, offer for sale, or sale of a trademark or goods designated by this mark, or a designation confusingly similar to it, shall be recognised as a violation of the trademark owner's rights. In 2011, the festival directorate concluded about two dozen agreements for the right to use the "Slavianski Bazaar" trademark. Alongside state enterprises, private companies and even artisans legally placed the cornflower on the musical staff. As practice shows, the festival's corporate logo on souvenir and other products of any manufacturer is a good way to promote goods, especially during the "Slavianski Bazaar" event. However, according to Olga Salnikova, it is too early to talk about manufacturers transitioning to civilised legal relations in the sphere of intellectual property. This is largely due to the complex system of trademark valuation, the lack of marketing research that would allow determining the benefits of using the trademark for both its owner and the manufacturer. The International Arts Festival "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk" will be held from July 12 to 18, 2012. -0-

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