Parliament on Thursday ratified the Agreement between our country and the European Union on the protection of geographical indications, which was signed in Brussels on 26 June 2012, Info-Prim Neo reports. Deputy Economy Minister Octavian Calmic noted that the agreement aims to increase reciprocal protection of geographical indications and designations of origin, implying control of domestic markets, of foodstuff quality, of imports and exports in order to prevent a violation of related rights. The agreement also provides for a periodical update of geographical indications and designations of origin. The agreement reflects the European Union and the Republic of Moldova's converging views on quality policy, consumer protection and intellectual property. The Moldovan Intellectual Property Agency, together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry and the Customs Service, will develop an action plan to implement the agreement.