I want to initiate a change in society in the long term.

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

Austerity need not be Europe's fate.

The German-French friendship is indispensable for Europe. And I will never let myself be carried away to making statements that would change it.

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

I attach the greatest importance to an amplification of the peace efforts in the Middle East. I would also like to see a greater dialogue between the U.S. and the EU.

Between France and Senegal there's a history. There's a language that we both speak. There's a culture that we share and to which both of our peoples have contributed. But beyond our history, beyond our language, beyond the links that have united us for so long, what unites us today is the future.