A Note on and a Proposal with Respect to the Transportation of Nuclear Cargoes in International Straits

The adoption of an international agreement to create a regime of prior communication and cooperation in the establishment of a precautionary contingency plan for nuclear spills for straits used for international navigation is vital as the peaceful uses of nuclear energy continue to be attractive to states, including Asian states, as a component of a sustainable energy strategy. With the expected rise in nuclear commerce for peaceful purposes, the need for a comprehensive framework for nuclear cargoes and wastes exists and this includes suitable response action plans for nuclear spills. The international instruments adopted by the International Maritime Organisation and the International Atomic Energy Agency provided a framework for the safe and secure carriage of nuclear materials from, other things, piracy, terrorism and sabotage. This article focuses on the movement of vessels carrying nuclear cargoes and wastes through the territorial sea waters of international straits and the necessary relationship that should exist between the vessels and the adjacent coastal States.