The diplomatic bags are an essential element in international diplomatic activity. These are suitcases or bags that are used to transport documents and valuables from one embassy to another or from an embassy to a diplomatic representation. They can also be used in certain exceptions for inter-government communications, but that is usually restricted.
These bags enjoy a series of privileges and exemptions that allow them to carry out their function efficiently and safely.
Diplomatic bags are a right recognized by the vienna convention on Diplomatic Relationswhich establishes that documents and objects of diplomatic use must be treated with respect and not subject to inspection. This includes diplomatic bags, which enjoy diplomatic immunity and cannot be opened or searched by the customs or security authorities of any country.
This exemption from inspection is considered essential to ensure the security and confidentiality of information and objects transported in diplomatic bags. Without it, diplomats could be exposed to delays and problems in the transport of their documents and objects, which could affect their ability to carry out their functions efficiently.
In addition to their diplomatic immunity, diplomatic bags also are tax exempt. This means that customs duties and other taxes are not applied to them in the countries through which they transit. This exemption is considered a necessary measure to ensure that diplomatic bags can move freely around the world without incurring additional costs.
They are usually identified by a seal or a label with the emblem of the diplomatic organization to which they belong or of the State that owns them. This allows customs and security authorities to recognize and treat them according to their privileges and exemptions.
Despite its privileges and exemptions, diplomatic bags are not exempt from all international rules and regulations. For example, they cannot be used to transport dangerous or illegal materials, and must comply with the safety and environmental protection regulations applicable in each country.
The bags of “frozen fish”
In recent days there has been too much talk in Uruguay about the supposed “frozen fish” that an Emirati politician would have given to Luis Lacalle Pou, who would have arrived in the country in “diplomatic bags” and which was frozen for more than seven months.
Now, the government affirms that this fish was donated to the popular pots, months after the product passed its age suitable for human consumption after being frozen.
You can read everything related to this controversy in this note:
