Naturally we are aware of the strength of our economy and naturally we don't want to downplay it.

I can't let important policy decisions hinge on the fact that an election is coming up every 90 days.

We must take care that globalization does not become something people become afraid of.

The euro is a sickly premature infant, the result of an over-hasty monetary union.

It was with horror that I learned of the abominable terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington in which so many innocent people have lost their lives. My government staunchly condemns these acts of terrorism. The German people are at the side of the United States of America in this difficult hour. I wish to express my deep-felt condolences and complete solidarity to you and the American people. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.

Germany is very free-trade oriented.

This is one of the gravest crises Europe has ever experienced... An agreement failed because of the completely stubborn attitudes of the UK and the Netherlands.