Defining State Sovereignty and Maritime Territorial Limits

Key Concepts in Maritime and Territorial Law

Territorial Sea Definition and Extent

The Territorial Sea is an extension of 12 miles from the coast. A coastal state exercises full sovereignty over this area, including the airspace above and the seabed below. This applies particularly to states possessing an extensive coastline, such as on the Atlantic Ocean.

Patrimonial Sea (Exclusive Economic Zone)

The Patrimonial Sea, often referred to as the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is an extension covering up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. Coastal state power in this zone is limited primarily to the administration, exploitation, conservation, and management of natural resources, including fishing.

The Argentine Sea

The Argentine Sea refers to the sector of the Atlantic Ocean located between the Rio de la Plata and the southern limits defined by international agreements.

State Border Definition

A border is the defined line separating the territories of two sovereign states.

Understanding Sovereignty

Sovereignty is a fundamental political and legal construction. It generally arises from treaties and agreements between states, aiming to define and assert a state's exclusive territorial authority.

International Law Limits

Limits are the elements of international law that serve to differentiate the territorial areas (ambits) where states exercise their sovereignty.