MARITIME LAW: UN Convention on the Law of the Sea

He added: "Like a constitution, it is a firm foundation - a permanent document providing order, stability, predictability and security - all based on the rule of law."

The UN secretary-general was of the opinion that the treaty was nearing the "goal of universality" that the Assembly has set out.

Assembly Vice-President Ambassador Rodney Charles, who also participated in the ceremony said that UNCLOS was an important element of the international legal framework.

He said: "The absence of a global legal framework led to the threat of maritime conflict as well as an often chaotic and unregulated exploitation of maritime resources. Member States realised a universal law of the sea was urgently needed."

While highlighting UNCLOS' role towards developing sustainable resource use, Ban said: "The Convention on the Law of the Sea is an important tool for sustainable development, as affirmed this year by the Rio+20 Conference. A sustainable future will involve renewable energies. Marine renewable energies are an untapped potential in many regions of the world and can play a significant role in meeting sustainable development goals, enhancing energy security and creating jobs."