Today, Paris is the capital of the world.

I think that France has not made it clear enough recently to our German friends how important it is to introduce euro bonds as a tool against speculation. And how the necessary budget discipline needs to be accompanied by growth.

There's always a risk when the candidate becomes president: Will he deliver what is expected of him?

Europe needs an engine, and the Franco-German motor has provided that when the two nations have converged on important topics during critical periods. But that partnership shouldn't be a directorate for other EU members.

Germany and France are pinning their hopes on young people, in terms of education, science and innovation.

Mitterrand had a sense for symbols, and he was the first Socialist president since 1958. He wanted to show that there is historical continuity, a connection with the great figures of French history.

In an election, one needs both hope and audacity.