6. With respect to the leasing of minerals and pipeline rights of way on government lands: (a) The Government of the Republic of Bolivia agrees to accord national treatment to covered investments, subject to limitations set forth in Article 25 of the Constitution of the Republic of Bolivia; (b) The Government of the United States of America agrees to accord national treatmen to covered investments, subject to the Mineral Lands Leasing Act.
Protocol
1. The Parties confirm their mutual understanding that advantages given to national suppliers in government procurement programs are not precluded by Article VI. 2. The Government of the Republic of Bolivia confirms that pursuant to the Treaty, Article 3 of the Bolivian Labor Law shall not apply to top managerial personnel. 3. The Parties confilTIl their mutual understanding that the provisions of Article IX do not apply to government contract disputes, except where (i) such contracts contain investment authorizations, (ii) such contracts constitute investment agreements, or (iii) such disputes arise out of or relate to an alleged breach of any right conferred, created or recognized by this Treaty with respect to a covered investment. 4. With respect to Article XV, paragraph 1 (b), the Government of the United States confirms that its federal system of government contains substantial protections against burdens on commerce, including investment by a State of the United States with respect to investors of other States of the United States. 5. The Government of the Republic of Bolivia confirms that joint ventures may be established in Bolivia, including in the areas within 50 kilometers of its borders, without any limitation on the respective capital contributions or proportionate shares of the joint venture partners.