Robert Schuman holds the post of French Foreign Minister from 26 July 1948 to 8 January 1953.

Le charbon et l'acier se devaient d'être pour Jean Monnet, commissaire général au Plan de modernisation et d'équipement, les premiers supports susceptibles d'établir une communauté concrète d'intérêts, ouvrant la voie à la mise en place d'une autorité supranationale dotée de véritables pouvoirs.

Spring 1950 in Houjarray, as preparations are made for the Schuman Plan. From left to right: Bernard Clappier, Head of the Private Office of Minister Robert Schuman; Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister; and Jean Monnet, Commissioner-General of the French National Planning Board.

On 17 April 1950, Jean Monnet and his close colleagues draw up the first draft of what will become the Schuman Declaration.

On 6 May 1950, Jean Monnet and his close colleagues draw up the ninth and final draft of what will become the Schuman Declaration.