4 Functions of Diplomatic and Consular Missions

Diplomatic functions — VCDR Article 3 (memorize the five):1. Representing the sending state in the receiving state;2. Protecting the sending state's interests and those of its nationals, within international law limits;3. Negotiating with the receiving government;4. Ascertaining by lawful means conditions and developments, and reporting to the sending state (lawful observation — not espionage);5. Promoting friendly relations — economic, cultural, scientific. (Plus, Article 3(2): the historically residual consular functions.)Consular functions — VCCR Article 5 (the fuller list): protecting the sending state's interests and its nationals (individuals and bodies corporate); furthering trade and navigation; issuingpassports and visas; acting as notary/civil registrar (marriages, births abroad); safeguardingthe interests of nationals in distress — including detention (visiting prisoners, arranging defence); performing certain judicial functions; transmitting judicial documents; supervising the sending state's vessels and aircraft.The comparative point (a favourite examination table): the embassy = political representation of the state at the capital; the consulate = service and protection of nationals andtrade in the localities — diplomatic functions are relations-between-governments; consular functions are administration-for-persons. (Hence a state may retain consulates after diplomatic rupture — VCCR Article 2(3)/VCDR Article 45(2).)