The maritime belt encompasses the inland waters and surrounding sea that fall under a state or nation’s jurisdiction, extending up to three miles from the coastline. It is also referred to as territorial waters or marine belt.
A maritime belt refers to the waters within a state or nation’s jurisdiction, including both inland waters and the surrounding sea. This typically extends up to three nautical miles from the coastline. For instance, the United States asserts its exclusive rights to explore, exploit, and manage the natural resources within this three-mile zone, such as fish, oil, and gas. The purpose of establishing a maritime belt is to safeguard the coastal state’s national interests and security, while also regulating the activities of foreign vessels and entities in the area. The size of the maritime belt may vary depending on the legal framework and geographical features of the coastline. This concept holds significance in international law as it impacts the rights and responsibilities of states concerning the utilization and governance of the oceans and their resources.
The Maritime Belt refers to the area of ocean that extends from the coastline to a certain distance, typically 12 nautical miles, where a country has jurisdiction and control.
Countries have the right to regulate and control activities within their Maritime Belt, including fishing, shipping, and resource extraction.
Other countries have the right to innocent passage through a country’s Maritime Belt, as long as they do not engage in any activities that are prejudicial to the peace, good order, or security of the coastal state.
Under international law, a country can extend its Maritime Belt beyond 12 nautical miles if it can demonstrate that the natural prolongation of its land territory extends beyond that distance.
The Maritime Belt refers to the area closest to the coastline where a country has jurisdiction, while the EEZ extends from the Maritime Belt to a distance of 200 nautical miles, within which a country has exclusive rights to exploit and manage natural resources.
In disputed waters, countries may have overlapping claims to Maritime Belts, which can lead to conflicts and disputes over jurisdiction and resource rights.
Countries must ensure that their regulations and activities within the Maritime Belt do not impede the right of innocent passage for ships and vessels from other countries.
Countries have the right to regulate and restrict fishing activities within their Maritime Belt to ensure sustainable management of marine resources.
The Maritime Belt is regulated under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which sets out the rights and responsibilities of countries in their respective Maritime Belts.
Legal disputes related to the Maritime Belt can arise from conflicting claims, resource exploitation, environmental protection, and navigation rights, which may require resolution through international arbitration or negotiation.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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