The Tribune

By CELESTE NIXON Tribune Staff Reporter cnixon@tribunemedia.net OFFICIAL negotiations between the Bahamas and the United States to clearly define the maritime borders between the neighbouring nations began yesterday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the opening ceremony of the first session of the maritime boundary delimitation discussions, Minister of Foreign Affairs Brent Symonette said defining the Bahamas' borders is necessary, not only for the country's increased security but also protection and use of marine resources. He said: "For the Bahamas, the delimitation of its maritime boundaries is of paramount importance as boundaries express in concrete terms the space in which a country has the right to fully exercise its sovereignty." A defined maritime border with the US will allow for more efficient and effective law enforcement of The Bahamas' maritime area, said Mr Symonette, including increased management of fisheries resources, mitigating environmental degradation and assist with issues of illegal immigration. Additionally, he said a clearly defined border would give legal certainty to both countries, the potential for future development of marine resources. "A future maritime border between our two countries can only facilitate further, the cooperation between The Bahamas and the USA on maritime issues, subsequently contributing to the maintenance of peace and security and economic advancement," Mr Symonette said. "Achieving a negotiated and mutually beneficial Agreement with our neighbour the USA is a priority for the Government of The Bahamas. We are assured that the issues discussed and advanced today will be based not only on core legal principles and rules but will be framed within the context of good faith and mutual respect." US Charge d'Affaires John Dinkelman said regardless of boundary lines both the United States and the Bahamas have the responsibility to be "good stewards" of the environment and the resources found in our waters. Mr Dinkelman said through these discussions the Bahamas and the US will work together to solve common challenges and continue to build on and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. He said: "While both the Bahamian and United States delegations bring extraordinary experience, technical expertise, and intellectual skills to these proceedings; perhaps the most valuable asset in for these discussions is the foundation of friendship and mutual respect that we collectively enjoy." The Bahamas signed a maritime boundary agreement with the Republic of Cuba on October 3 2011.