Ratifying Bhutan, Bangladesh, India and Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement will not open the floodgates for unregulated traffic in Bhutan, the government reiterates.
The National Assembly had ratified the agreement, in the summer session.
In the National Assembly today, the information and communications minister, D N Dhungyel said people have misunderstood what BBIN entails.
Many truckers and the taxi drivers had expressed their apprehension saying their businesses will be hampered if Bhutan becomes a signatory to the BBIN.
“Vehicles registered in one contracting party and operating under this agreement will not be permitted to transport local passengers and goods within the territory of other contracting party,” said Lyonpo.
Foreign minister, Damcho Dorji said the number of vehicles coming to the country will be based on protocols. “It will be as per the capacity of the roads in the country.”
The Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay said becoming a signatory to the agreement will not alter the existing bilateral agreement Bhutan has with India.
However, he said discussions with Nepal and Bangladesh have been deferred.
Lyonchhen said the ratification will in fact bring in opportunities to export energy and strengthen trade with the signatory countries.
The discussion has ensured in the National Assembly today, after the National Council did not ratify the agreement.
The agreement will be submitted to the Druk Gyalpo who shall then command for a joint-sitting.
