I'm not suffering from withdrawal symptoms. I would say that I have a balanced state of mind.

With their charm and legendary sense of humor, the British directly or indirectly paved the way for a large number of European compromises.

When it becomes serious, you have to lie.

There can be no doubt that, with the United Kingdom, we will lose a very market-oriented voice.

The will of the British people must now be put into effect as quickly as possible. Under Article 50 of the EU Treaty the UK must leave the European Union within two years at the latest.

You can consider this carved in stone: I rule out becoming Herman Van Rompuy's successor.

In Europe, even more so than in national politics, we have to follow the principle laid down by Martin Luther: Use language that the people will understand, but don't just tell them what they want to hear.