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.

I have known a great many politicians who have not managed to stay in power for 16 years. I have nevertheless already managed to remain at the helm for 18 years. I still want to achieve a great many things for my country. Experience is not a disadvantage here, especially as the head of government of a small country in a European setting that has become more difficult.

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

I am in favor of the European institutions being led for the next two-and-a-half years as they have been thus far. We need stability.

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

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 must also take this opportunity to learn from the situation [of Brexit], just as we learned from the refugee and debt crises.