Diplomatic recognition is the full formal acceptance by one state of the existence and government of another state as a sovereign entity. According to international law, this recognition allows two states to establish formal diplomatic relations and conclude agreements.

There are two types of diplomatic recognition:

De Jure Recognition: Full and permanent recognition of a state or government. The existence and legitimacy of the recognized state are legally accepted.

De Facto Recognition: Temporary recognition when a government controls a state but its permanence or legitimacy is uncertain. Its existence is accepted but its legal status or longevity is not.

• Oppenheim, L. (1992). International law: A treatise: Volume 1: Peace. Longman.