[2] After graduating from ENA, Charles Fries chose a career in the diplomatic service and joined the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Quai d'Orsay) in 1989.

He was initially assigned to the Economic Cooperation Department, where he dealt with European issues (common agricultural policy, structural funds, budget, etc.).

In 1993, he joined the cabinet of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alain Juppé, as technical adviser in charge of European issues.

During this period, Fries was particularly involved in the negotiation and ratification of the European Constitutional Treaty, Franco-German relations and EU enlargement.

[5] Fries played a significant role in shaping major EU security and defence interventions through his tenure as EEAS Deputy Secretary General.