A separate bilateral agreement is a type of agreement between two countries that is separate from any other international agreement that may exist between them. It is specifically tailored to address the specific needs and concerns of the two countries involved. This type of agreement is often used when countries have a unique set of circumstances that require a tailored approach.
The primary advantage of a separate bilateral agreement is that it allows countries to focus on specific issues that are important to them. This means that it can be more effective at addressing the specific needs and concerns of the two countries involved than a more general international agreement.
One example of a separate bilateral agreement is the Canada-US Safe Third Country Agreement. This agreement allows both countries to designate each other as a „safe third country“ for refugees seeking asylum. This means that asylum seekers who arrive in one country and then try to cross the border into the other country can be sent back to the first country to make their claim for asylum.
Another example is the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement seeks to promote trade between the two countries by reducing tariffs on a wide range of goods and services. It also includes provisions to protect intellectual property rights, promote investment, and improve cooperation on regulatory issues.
However, there are also some potential disadvantages to separate bilateral agreements. One of the main concerns is that they can lead to a „spaghetti bowl“ of agreements that can be difficult to manage. This can make it more difficult for countries to coordinate their efforts and can create confusion for businesses that are trying to navigate the different rules and regulations that apply to their operations.
There is also some concern that separate bilateral agreements can be less transparent than more general international agreements. This is because they are often negotiated behind closed doors and can be more difficult for the public to access and understand.
Overall, the use of separate bilateral agreements can be an effective way for countries to address specific issues that are important to them. However, it is important for countries to carefully consider the potential advantages and disadvantages before entering into such agreements. Additionally, it is important for countries to work to coordinate their efforts to avoid creating a confusing tangle of agreements that can be difficult to navigate.