Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Western Europe and Canada, Volume VI, Part 1

850.33/10–3052

No. 130
The President of the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community (Monnet) to the Deputy United States Representative to the European Coal and Steel Community (Tomlinson)¹

confidential

Luxembourg, October 29, 1952.

During the conversation which took place on September 2 in Lux between the High Auth and Amb Draper and yourself,² it was agreed that discussions shld be held as soon as possible between reps of the High Auth and the US Govt to elaborate the association between the community and the US of America.

During the month and a half which have followed, the attention of the High Auth has been largely taken up with the initial question of the other institutions of the community, the organization of its own staff, and the creation of a series of commissions which will make it possible to associate the interested parties throughout the community with the work of the High Auth.

With these first essential tasks now well underway I believe that the time has come to undertake discussions between the High Auth and the US Govt on the probs we wish to treat in common. In order to permit the full and frank exchange of views and of info that we agreed were desirable in our conversation with Amb Draper and yourself I propose the establishment of a joint comite as the most appropriate framework. The joint comite could meet at regular intervals with smaller working groups in daily contact as necessary. On our side I shld participate in this comite along with certain of my colleagues and officials of the High Auth. I hope that on your side Amb Draper wld participate whenever he felt it justified and that you will take part in the work with such members of your staff and special advisors as you wish to have advise you.

I shld suggest that if convenient to Amb Draper and yourself the first mtg of this comite might be held in Luxembourg during the week of December 1. I shld appreciate your informing me what date would be suitable for you.³

Jean Monnet

1. Transmitted to the Department of State in telegram 62 from Luxembourg, Oct. 30, which in addition noted that Monnet’s message had been received by Tomlinson on Oct. 29.
2. For a summary of the conversation under reference, see Document 99.
3. When the Department of State received the text of this letter, transmitted in telegram 62 from Luxembourg (see footnote 1 above), it requested more information on the composition of the joint committee and the types of problems to be discussed by it. The Department pointed out, in telegram 51 to Luxembourg, Nov. 4, that the joint committee approach seemed to be a good one, but that more information was needed before a pattern for a U.S. relationship was established. (850.33/10–3052)