What's very important is that we build a space that matters in the world, one that operates according to democratic rules, and that small and large countries enjoy a good relationship.

The Republic is open and tolerant but also knows how and when to be firm and make its values respected.

We shall say clearly that any symbol conspicuously displaying religious affiliation in school is prohibited.

The United States, for a French citizen, is a friend, an ally, to whom we owe, along with most Europeans, our freedom.

I tell fundamentalists that there is no question of them attacking our Republic's foundations.

What's very important is that we build a space that matters in the world, one that operates according to democratic rules, and that small and large countries enjoy a good relationship.

France has a very important relationship with Germany. But that does not mean that we agree about everything or that two of our universities or companies are not going to compete.