Today, the Social and Cultural Affairs Committee (SCAC) presented the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation among The Governments of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, The Kingdom of Bhutan, The Republic of India, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Nepal, The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and The Kingdom of Thailand to the House for ratification. The agreement, initially ratified during the third session of the fourth Parliament of the National Assembly, was forwarded to the National Council for further review and adoption. The SCAC was tasked with reviewing the agreement.

Hon’ble Tshering, Chairperson of the Committee, briefly presented the background, advantages, opportunities, and the Committee’s observations on the agreement. He informed the House that the agreement, signed in Bangkok on 3 April 2025, is designed to strengthen regional maritime transport cooperation and facilitate access to regional maritime facilities. It is expected to enhance trade, improve logistics connectivity, and support economic ties within the BIMSTEC region.

He also noted that the agreement consists of 15 Articles covering areas such as cooperation in maritime transport, port access, assistance to vessels and crew in distress, dispute settlement, and procedures for amendments and entry into force. He also added that the agreement will support Bhutan’s broader economic initiatives, including the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, by enhancing trade and connectivity across the region.

The agreement was ratified with unanimous support from all Members. The BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement will be formally adopted on 12 December 2025.

Tomorrow, the House is set to deliberate on the review report of the Few Keys Economic Sectors.