There are tensions abroad where people don't understand our attachment to the freedom of speech, we've seen the protests, and I would say that in France all beliefs are respected.

I'm not a lukewarm European. I know that the German-French friendship is indispensable, no matter who the countries' leaders are.

The transatlantic relationship is vital for both our countries: France will remain a reliable ally of the United States. Nevertheless, ally does not mean aligned.

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.

I don't like indecent, unearned wealth. But it is legitimate for an entrepreneur who has created something to make a good living.

There is just one France... one single nation, united in the same destiny.

We are near, very near, to an end to the eurozone crisis... The worst - in the sense of the fear of the eurozone breaking up - is over. But the best isn't there yet.