May 9, 1950

The Schuman Declaration

On 9 May 1950, the French Foreign Minister, Robert Schuman, made a speech in the 'Salon de l'horloge' at the Foreign Ministry (Quai d'Orsay) publicising the idea put forward by Jean Monnet of bringing together the production of coal and steel under a supranational authority. By sharing the resources required for rearmament, the Schuman Plan aimed to prevent a new war between France and Germany. This was a way for West Germany, led by Konrad Adenauer, to cement its place in the western camp.

Vidéo : © Communauté européenne, 2006Photo : © Ministère des Affaires étrangères

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