LA PLATAFORMA CONTINENTAL ARGENTINA EN 8 MINUTOS
Overview of Argentina's Continental Shelf
The Significance of the Continental Shelf
- Argentina's continental shelf is one of the largest globally, rich in fishery resources and biodiversity, along with mineral resources like oil and gas.
- The maritime space includes three groups of islands: the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and South Sandwich Islands.
Understanding the Continental Shelf
- The continental shelf consists not only of land above water but also submerged areas extending to a steep underwater slope known as the continental slope.
- Legally, there are three key maritime zones: territorial sea (up to 12 nautical miles), contiguous zone (up to 24 nautical miles), and exclusive economic zone (up to 350 nautical miles).
Territorial Sovereignty
- Within the territorial sea, Argentina holds full sovereignty, allowing control over policing, defense, navigation, and economic use.
- Measurements for territorial waters start from a baseline defined by low tide along the coast.
Economic Exclusivity
- The exclusive economic zone grants Argentina rights to exploit resources within this vast area; it also applies to southern Atlantic islands.
- All territories south of latitude 60 degrees are governed by Antarctic Treaty regulations.
Diplomatic Achievements and Challenges
- In 2016, Argentina successfully extended its exclusive economic zone from 200 to 350 nautical miles through UN approval, adding approximately 1.7 million square kilometers.