Aanhef

The States Parties to the present Convention,

Conscious of the fact that wrecks, if not removed, may pose a hazard to navigation or the marine environment,

Convinced of the need to adopt uniform international rules and procedures to ensure the prompt and effective removal of wrecks and payment of compensation for the costs therein involved,

Noting that many wrecks may be located in States' territory, including the territorial sea,

Recognizing the benefits to be gained through uniformity in legal regimes governing responsibility and liability for removal of hazardous wrecks,

Bearing in mind the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, done at Montego Bay on 10 December 1982, and of the customary international law of the sea, and the consequent need to implement the present Convention in accordance with such provisions,

Have agreed as follows: