Since it took up office, the Commission which I lead has pursued a clear policy: we need less interference from Brussels when it comes to the things that Member States can deal with better on their own. That is why we no longer regulate oil cans or showerheads, but concentrate instead on what we can do better together rather than alone - such as tackling the refugee crisis or securing our external borders. Only in that way can we make people feel that Europe makes a tangible difference.

The person who is ahead in the end will have the advantage.

It is not acceptable that European Union countries are divided into those who give and those who take.

I notice with a certain sense of regret that far too many Europeans are returning to a regional and national mindset.

I urge everyone to be patient and reasonable and I warn against shooting from the hip in the truest sense of the term. Pressure and dialogue are needed.

In 1913 many believed that there would never again be a war in Europe. The great powers of the continent were so closely intertwined economically that the view was widespread that they could no longer afford to have military confrontations.

My friendship with Martin [Schulz], by contrast, is completely different in that it goes far beyond politics.