As a minister, I would rather be criticized for thoroughly weighing the options, and sometimes even voicing my doubts, than to be reproached for recklessly sending German soldiers into combat.

Military missions cannot be a normal tool of politics, but instead must remain the great exception.

The fact that someone didn't experience the war itself doesn't mean that he doesn't perceive its consequences.

I sometimes read that it's time for German democracy to finally grow up. I don't see it as a sign of maturity if we treat military missions as something normal.

Military missions are not democratic development aid.

As foreign minister I cannot allow myself to be guided by emotions.

I was never a member of the peace movement or a pacifist, nor was I ever carried away from a demonstration outside a military barracks. Perhaps that's why I don't feel the need to compensate for anything.