Right of Transit Passage
Definition
A “right of transit passage” exists for straits which are used for international navigation, and creates rights and obligations for both coastal States and “user” States. The right applies to straits which are used for international navigation between one part of the high seas or an exclusive economic zone and another part of the high seas or an exclusive economic zone. Under the right, “coastal States” may designate sea lanes and prescribe traffic separation schemes where necessary to promote safe passage, and may make laws and regulations for safety, regulation of traffic, prevention of polluting and fishing, enforcing customs, immigration, fiscal and sanitary laws. “User States” (those passing through the straits) and border States shall by agreement cooperate in navigation and safety aids and prevention of pollution from ships.