Roland Dumas Biography

Appointed Minister of European Affairs

Dumas backs France's participation in the founding five-state agreement for gradually reducing checks at common borders. French policy couples freer movement with stronger police coordination.

Dumas endorses the 1990 Convention defining common rules on borders, visas and cooperation between authorities. The French approach stresses both free movement and compensating security measures.

During the Schengen process, Dumas welcomes Italy into the Schengen arrangements as the original group begins to expand. France supports mobility alongside common visa and security arrangements.

In France, Dumas endorses Spanish and Portuguese accession to the Convention at the Bonn signing. The French approach stresses both free movement and compensating security measures.

Helps define France's approach to political cooperation during the Luxembourg European Council.

Contributes to the political-union compromise accepted by France on the summit's final day.

Confirms French participation in the new European Union framework.

Signs the Treaty on European Union for France as Foreign Minister.

During the Schengen process, Dumas approves the Greek accession instruments signed in Madrid. Paris also emphasises effective controls at the Schengen area's external frontier.

Helps France assess the legal and political arrangements intended to preserve the Maastricht Treaty.