chargé d’affaires ad interim

A chargé d'affaires ad interim is a diplomat who temporarily assumes the duties of the head of a diplomatic mission when the primary representative, typically an ambassador, is absent. This role is recognized under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and is considered the lowest rank of diplomatic representative.12

Chargés d'affaires are usually accredited to the foreign minister of the host country, rather than the head of state. They may also be appointed to lead a mission when diplomatic relations between their country and the receiving state are tenuous. The term "ad interim" signifies that this position is temporary.134