Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
09NASSAU10
2009-01-07 02:09:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Nassau
Cable title:  

Bahamas Submits Archipelagic Maritime Borders to United

Tags:  PGOV PBTS BF 
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R 070209Z JAN 09
FM AMEMBASSY NASSAU
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 6016
UNCLAS NASSAU 000010 


STATE FOR WHA/CAR

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PBTS BF
SUBJECT: Bahamas Submits Archipelagic Maritime Borders to United
Nations

UNCLAS NASSAU 000010


STATE FOR WHA/CAR

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PBTS BF
SUBJECT: Bahamas Submits Archipelagic Maritime Borders to United
Nations


1. The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas (GCOB)
formally submitted their official archipelagic maritime borders to
the United Nations (UN) on 11 December 2008. The move brings The
Bahamas in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the
Sea (UNCLOS) which defines the rights and responsibilities of
nations in their use of the world's oceans.


2. The formal declaration definitively sets out the extent to which
Bahamian sovereignty extends. In addition, the baselines provide a
clear basis for the GCOB to continue discussions regarding maritime
boundaries with Cuba and the United Kingdom (Turks and Caicos
Islands). Local media reported Ministry of Foreign Affairs
officials stating the declaration will allow the island nation to
more effectively patrol and protect their maritime borders.


SIEGEL