I don't think in national categories. For me it [policy] is about concepts and substance.

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

If someone complains about Europe from Monday to Saturday then nobody is going to believe him on Sunday when he says he is a convinced European.

I believe neither the French nor the Dutch really rejected the constitutional treaty.

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.

The good thing about the European Union is that the joint project ultimately benefits all Member States and not just a few.

The person who is ahead in the end will have the advantage.