They don't actually need permission to transit the Channel, as long as they don't stop or conduct military operations in territorial waters. The Channel is sub

They don't actually need permission to transit the Channel, as long as they don't stop or conduct military operations in territorial waters. The Channel is subject to the right of "innocent passage", and both China and Russia transit it at will. Re Secion 3 of https://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/part2.htm https://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unc... (Although you're correct that it's not equivalent; most the restrictions listed don't apply to the EEZ. It's in the name, the Exclusive Economic zone gives them exclusive economic rights - most activities that have no economic impact are allowed.)