Legal Definitions - letters of credence

Definition: Letters of credence are official documents that accredit a diplomat to the government of the country they are being sent to. They are also known as a letter of credence and are abbreviated as LC or L/C.

Example: When a new ambassador is appointed to represent their country in another country, they are given letters of credence by their own government. These letters are then presented to the government of the country they are being sent to, as proof of their official status.

Explanation: The example illustrates how letters of credence are used in international diplomacy. They are important because they establish the legitimacy of a diplomat's position and give them the authority to represent their country in official matters. Without letters of credence, a diplomat would not be recognized as an official representative of their country and would not be able to carry out their duties.