Angelo.....That's a possibility. however, I would be surprised to see that aspect signed this case. They are actively seeking the highest bidder. therefore they would want to be open to discuss with potential partner 1 while still being able to talk to potential partner 2 and so on.
I have seen agreements such as what your talking about but usually they are more designed for contract negotiations where you are trying to sell a product or service.
That being said, which is why I pointed it out. seeing that the Deputy Director of the FDA was taking notice to who was there at the conference, Odidi must have had a very good reason to miss it. I am hoping it was to wine and dine and hammer out the final details of a deal.