333 



tlie United States has been following since they were 

 enunciated in (he 1945 proclamation of President Truman 

 concerning the Continental Shelf. 



"Finally, the optional protocol would be beneficial in 

 that it is in accordance with the U.S. policy of striving for 

 solution of international disputes by peaceful means." 



The committee believes that adherence to the principles set forth in 

 the law of the sea conventions will reduce disputes and friction among 

 nations and thereby serve tlie cause of peaceful and friendly relations 

 among the nations of the world. The committee, therefore, recom- 

 mends tliat tlie Senate give its advice and consent to the ratification 

 of the pending conventions and the optional protocol on the law of the 

 sea and include in its resolution of ratification an understanding on the 

 principle of abstention. 



