Additional protocol on consular functions to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations

The General Assembly,

Recalling that the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 24 April 1963 sets the basic framework for the exercise of consular functions,

Considering that paragraph 2 of article 73 of the Convention provides that nothing in the Convention shall preclude States from concluding international agreements confirming or supplementing or extending or amplifying the provisions thereof,

Having in mind further development of the international practice in the field of consular functions as a result of an increased co-operation among States,

Realizing that one of the functions of the General Assembly in promoting international co-operation consists in initiating studies and making recommendations for the purpose of encouraging the progressive development of international law and its codification,

Having considered the item entitled "Additional protocol on consular functions to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations",

1.         Reaffirms its conviction that the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations has played, for over two decades, and will continue to play an essential role in promoting co-operation and understanding among States, by creating favourable conditions for the activities of consular posts and for the conduct of consular relations;

2.         Takes note with interest of the proposal concerning the elaboration of an additional protocol on consular functions to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations;

3.         Requests the Secretary-General to seek the views of Member States and of other States parties to the Convention on the proposal and on the procedure to be followed in considering this question, and to submit a report thereon to the General Assembly at its forty-sixth session;

4.         Decides to include in the provisional agenda of its forty-sixth session the item entitled "Additional protocol on consular functions to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations".