Third Reading on the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation
The House held the Third Reading of the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation today. The Chairperson of the Human Rights and Foreign Relations Committee, Member from Thrimshing-Kangpara Constituency, presented the Committee’s review report on the Agreement. The Chairperson informed the House that the Committee had conducted extensive stakeholder consultations as part of its review process. The Chairperson submitted that the Agreement is expected to strengthen Bhutan’s regional connectivity, promote maritime cooperation, and facilitate the efficient transport of goods and passengers among BIMSTEC member states.
The House deliberated on all 15 Articles and endorsed the Agreement with some members expressing reservations on some provisions. The House directed the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, to review Article 10 concerning the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), incorporate the recommendations made by Members, and present the follow-up to the House.
The House will vote on the Agreement on Monday, as per the Rules of Procedure.
