ABSTRACT
In modern diplomatic practice, states generally use four methods for communicating directly with one another and other international actors. These are notes, letters, memoranda and aides-memoires. Notes are the most widely used form of diplomatic correspondence. It is necessary to distinguish those notes that form a correspondence, and may either be in the first or third person, from notes or letters that are used to bring an agreement into effect. Along with notes, letters are extensively used for diplomatic correspondence. Letters are a basic means of administration in international institutions and other communications. A memorandum is essentially a detailed statement of facts and related arguments. It resembles a note, but is stylistically far freer, has no opening or closing formalities and need not be signed. The aide-memoire is used widely and, like a memorandum, is extremely versatile in terms of the contexts within which it can be used. It is rather less formal, however, than a memorandum.
