Equatorial Guinea–São Tomé and Príncipe Maritime Boundary Treaty facts for kids
| Treaty Regarding the Delimitation of the Maritime Boundary between the Republic of Equatorial Guinea and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe | |
|---|---|
| Type | Boundary delimitation |
| Signed | 26 June 1999 |
| Location | Malabo, Equatorial Guinea |
| Parties | |
| Depositary |  United Nations Secretariat |
| Languages | Portuguese; Spanish |
The Equatorial Guinea – São Tomé and Príncipe Maritime Boundary Treaty is an agreement signed in 1999. It helps to draw the sea border between two African countries: Equatorial Guinea and São Tomé and Príncipe. This treaty is important because it clearly defines where each country's waters begin and end.
Contents
What is a Maritime Boundary Treaty?
A maritime boundary treaty is like a special map that shows where one country's control over the ocean stops and another's begins. These borders are not drawn on land, but in the sea. They help countries know who owns the resources in the ocean, like fish or oil. They also help prevent arguments between countries.
Where is the Sea Border?
This treaty was signed in a city called Malabo on June 26, 1999. The border it describes has two main parts.
Border Near Annobón Island
The first part of the border separates Annobón Island (which belongs to Equatorial Guinea) from São Tomé Island (part of São Tomé and Príncipe). This section of the border is made up of four straight lines in the ocean. These lines connect five specific points. The border is drawn roughly in the middle, equally far from both islands.
Border Near Río Muni and Príncipe Island
The second part of the border is a bit more complicated. It separates the mainland part of Equatorial Guinea, called Río Muni, from Príncipe Island. This section has 14 straight lines that connect 15 specific points. Just like the first part, this border is also drawn to be roughly in the middle of the two countries.
When Did the Treaty Start?
The treaty started to be used right away after it was signed. This is called "provisionally in force." However, for it to become "definitively" (or permanently) in force, both countries need to officially approve it. This process is called ratification. So far, the treaty has not been fully ratified by both countries.
The full name of this important agreement is Treaty Regarding the Delimitation of the Maritime Boundary between the Republic of Equatorial Guinea and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe.
See also
In Spanish: Tratado de fronteras marítimas entre Guinea Ecuatorial y Santo Tomé y Príncipe para niños
