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

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.

The European Union has decades of experience in overcoming crises and has always emerged stronger after.

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.

I am for it - not to make a threat, but to make clear that decisions that have been made are applicable law, even if you have voted against it. At issue here is European solidarity, which cannot be a one-way street. The traffic has to move in both directions.

I am chilled by the realization of how similar circumstances in Europe in 2013 are to those of 100 years ago.

Anyone who believes that the eternal question of war and peace in Europe is no longer there risks being deeply mistaken.