The use of EU summits to frame political victories or defeats is an annoying habit.

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

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

I'm ready to be insulted as being insufficiently democratic, but I want to be serious ... I am for secret, dark debates.

There can be no doubt that, with the United Kingdom, we will lose a very market-oriented voice.

You can consider this carved in stone: I rule out becoming Herman Van Rompuy's successor.