Legal Definitions - aide-mémoire

An aide-mémoire is a diplomatic document that a diplomatic agent leaves with the receiving state's department of foreign affairs on the occasion of a démarche.

This document presents the receiving state with a precise record of the substance of the diplomatic agent's mission. It is usually written in an impersonal style, without mentioning either the addressee or the author.

The aide-mémoire appears on printed letterhead, is dated, but it is not signed, initialed, or embossed with a seal.

For example, if a diplomat from one country visits another country to discuss a particular issue, they may leave an aide-mémoire with the receiving state's department of foreign affairs. This document will summarize the main points of the discussion and serve as a record of the meeting.