Germany will continue to play a central - perhaps even a more important - role in the European Union. I think that we will all miss the pragmatic approach of the British, however, particularly in those long nights of negotiation.

I have another explanation [of Brexit]: In its 43 years of EU membership, Britain has never been able to decide whether it wants to fully or only partially belong to the EU.

We do not attract Russian money to Luxembourg with high interest rates.

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

It is not more Europe or less Europe that we need. We need a better Europe.

It's important to recognize that we in Europe will either succeed together or fail together.

I am a champion of trans-Atlantic relations and I do not believe there is any other option available to us than working closely together with America - including Canada. There is no other alliance option, but the same is true for the U.S.