We need open, competitive, market economies... but at the same time with effective regulation and supervision.

Internal protectionism in Europe would be deadly, really a disaster for European economies.

Germany is the biggest economy of Europe and we need Germany on board for the economic reforms of Europe, including, of course, the deepening of the internal market, resisting protectionism, and supporting further economic policy coordination.

I'm very particular but very thrifty at the same time.

In the age of globalisation, pooled sovereignty means more power, not less.

We don't want a mediocre, defensive Europe that tries to bury its head in the sand to avoid the realities of the 21st century.