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

I would describe that [friendship with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras] as a utilitarian friendship. At the time, his country was facing the prospect of leaving the euro zone and many Greeks felt abandoned by Europe. In such a situation, it seemed appropriate to me to present myself as a friend to Greece. It had to do with the country's dignity.

We can't completely rely on the aberrations of history to explain today's European necessities. Future-related issues are no less pressing.

I said in my inaugural address that I am not the Council's secretary, nor am I the Parliament's lackey. That can sometimes lead to conflicts, which are defused through dialogue.

My main concern is to protect people from detriment.

Angela Merkel did the right thing. Her decision and the extraordinary willingness of the German people to take in refugees conveyed an image of Germany that is still having positive repercussions today. Unfortunately, people in Germany are no longer seeing that.

From the very beginning Europe has been not only a success story but also a story of success achieved by learning.