Any debate among politicians about monetary policy is counterproductive.

Germany is very free-trade oriented.

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

A market that's as open as possible is the precondition for a successful economy, and a successful economy is the precondition to being able to pay for social security.

It makes more sense to find out where the middle- and long-term common ground lies.

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.

Indeed, the creators of the euro envisioned it as an instrument to promote political union.