Decision on Transit likely by March
Says Muhith
Finance Minister AMA Muhith yesterday said the government will try to take a final decision by March on providing transit facilities to India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
“Based on the report of the government's committee on transit, discussions have started with the countries concerned”, he said, adding that the report reached him about 8-10 days ago.
The government formed the core committee led by Tariff Commission Chairman Mujibur Rahman for its recommendations on various issues including transit routes and fees.
Last month the committee submitted its final report.
The committee has also submitted a copy of draft framework agreement covering overall issues relating to transit among the four countries including India.
Muhith revealed the information while replying to journalists at a news conference at Ruposhi Bangla Hotel following a meeting of the finance ministers of Saarc countries.
The minister said he dose not think a general framework agreement is required for transit.
Mentioning that the countries that took transit from Switzerland accepted the Swiss rules, he said the countries to enjoy transit will accept the rules formulated by Bangladesh.
A commerce ministry official said the period of the trade and transit protocol with India will expire in March. Before that, the government will have to decide on the routes, amount of fees, and whether the tenure will be extended, he added.
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