To determine the necessary characteristics for a state to exist, the following two criteria are commonly accepted:
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Defined Territory - A state must have a specific geographical area that it governs, with recognized borders.
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Sovereign Government - A state must have a governing body or authority that exercises control and has the ability to create and enforce laws within its territory.
Other attributes such as a permanent population and the capacity to enter into relations with other states are often discussed as additional characteristics, but the two mentioned above are fundamental.