Is France a northern European export powerhouse, or a Mediterranean indebted and dependent economy? Yes to both.

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.

France, after the month of May, will share trust with the current leadership of the United States which, on many subjects, has tended to take useful positions in our view.

Each country has a soul, and France's soul is equality.

Symbols mean a lot in politics. They indicate a will and create new realities.

One thing that makes France different from other countries is the tradition of social solidarity. People from all backgrounds and political positions are willing to contribute for services and protection of society as a whole - but on the condition that money is being spent effectively and that everyone is paying their part.

I am for a clear distinction between public and private life. I believe private matters should be regulated in private and I have asked those close to me to respect this.