In a unanimous decision, Bhutan’s National Council (NC) officially ratified a new Air Services Agreement (ASA) with Kuwait on November 20, marking a pivotal step towards strengthening bilateral air links. The agreement, endorsed by all 22 members of the Council, is slated to come into effect on December 6, 2024.
The ASA, introduced by the Economic Affairs Committee (EAC), aims to significantly improve air connectivity between Bhutan and Kuwait. Deputy Chairperson of the EAC, Sonam Tenzin, highlighted the multifaceted benefits during the presentation, stating, “This agreement will enhance air connectivity, open new tourism opportunities, create jobs, and boost revenue through increased aviation activity. Additionally, passengers will benefit from more travel options and competitive airfares.”
Birendra Chimoria, a Council member from Dagana, expressed strong support for the agreement, linking it to the broader national vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). “This agreement aligns with His Majesty’s plan to establish Gelephu as a global transit hub,” Chimoria remarked. He further noted, “With GMC positioned as an international transit point, we could see an influx of Airbus flights to Bhutan, enhancing our global connectivity.”
The ASA with Kuwait was initially signed on January 9, 2024, and subsequently underwent a thorough review process. It was first presented to the National Assembly during the inaugural session of the fourth Parliament in June 2024 before being forwarded to the National Council for final approval.
Tshewang Rinchen, Chairperson of the EAC, confirmed that the agreement complies with the Chicago Convention framework and meets the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). “Ensuring adherence to international aviation standards was a priority in drafting this agreement,” Rinchen stated.
Despite the broad support, some Council members voiced concerns regarding the potential challenges of the ASA. Sonam Tobgyel, representing Trashigang, questioned the tangible benefits of the new agreement, referencing Bhutan’s previous ASAs with eight other countries that have yet to yield significant improvements in connectivity, tourism, or economic growth. “Will this agreement with Kuwait differ from the past ASAs, which I’ve seen as mere ‘paper agreements’?” Tobgyel asked. He also pointed out that the ASA signed in 1983 with Kuwait did not bring visible benefits to Bhutan.
Additional concerns raised by Council members included the potential for increased competition among Bhutanese airlines, the limited capacity of Paro International Airport, and the ongoing construction of Gelephu International Airport. Environmental impacts from heightened air traffic were also highlighted as areas needing careful consideration.
As Bhutan prepares to implement the ASA with Kuwait, stakeholders remain hopeful that this agreement will deliver on its promises to enhance aviation connectivity, stimulate tourism, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. The coming months will be crucial in observing how the new agreement unfolds and addresses the challenges highlighted by Council members.
